Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are determined as conditions that affect the quality, timing,  and also the duration of sleep, and this makes it difficult for people to get the desired rest. Since poor sleep can negatively impact the-

• physical health
• mental well-being
• work performance
• and the overall quality of life

But in case of occasional sleep disturbances, persistent sleep problems may also indicate an underlying sleep disorder that requires medical attention.

What Are Sleep Disorders?

Sleep disorders is a medical problem and interfere with day-to-day routine. They can affect the person’s ability to-.

• fall asleep
• stay asleep
• achieve restful sleep
• maintain a healthy sleep

There are thousands and even millions of peple suffer from mild and temporary to severe and chronic conditions.

Common types of sleep disorders

 ➤ Insomnia

One of the most common sleep disorders and it involves the phase where people experience difficulty of sleep, staying asleep and even waking up too early and then unable to return to sleep.

Some major symptoms are-

● Trouble falling asleep in the night time.

● Wakening up frequently in night

● You are waking up too early

● Daytime fatigue and irritation at the same time

➤ Sleep apnea

It is a serious sleep condition where people face breathing problem on repetition basis. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Major symptoms seen are-

● loud snoring

● gasping in the air during sleep

● morning headache

● excessive daytime sleepiness

● and also difficult in concentrating.

➤ Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

This condition causes an uncontrolled urge to move legs and this usually happens due to the uncomfortable sensations. Symptoms often worsen during the rest and at night.

➤ Symptoms are-

Tingling or crawling sensations in the legs, a strong urge to move legs, symptoms worsen at bedtime and also sleep disruption.

➤ Narcolepsy

A neurological disorder, that affect the brains ability to regulate the sleep and even wakefulness.

Major symptoms are- excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep attacks, sleep paralysis, hallucinations and even sudden muscle weakness.

➤ Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders

These disorders occur when the body’s internal clock is misaligned with the external environment.

 Symptoms involved are- difficulty sleeping at the desired time, excessive daytime sleepiness and also reduced alternes and performance.

Different causes of sleep disorders

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of sleep disorders and including-

• Stress
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Chronic pain
• Neurological disorder
• Irregular work schedules
• Hormonal changes
• Obesity
• Intake of certain medications
• Following poor sleep habits

Some risk factors involved

There might be the case where certain individuals might have a higher risk of developing sleep disorders and they are-

Category of older adults

Shift workers

People who suffer with chronic medical conditions

Individuals who are experiencing high level of stress

Those with the family history of sleep disorder

Different symptoms of sleep disorder

 The symptoms vary depending upon the specific conditions, and that majorly involves- when you experience difficulty in falling asleep

Frequent waking during the daytime

Excessive daytime fatigue

Interruption of breathing during sleep

Poor concentration and memory

Morning headache

Reduced productivity

Impact of Sleep Disorders on Health

➤ Physical health effects

Sleep disorder can have a negative affect the overall physical health and thereby preventing your body from getting rest. Since, poor sleep has been linked with the increased conditions such as-

 ● blood pressure

● heart disease

● obesity

● diabetes

and a weakened immune system and thereby making individuals to suffer with different health complications.

➤ Mental health effects

Individuals should follow adequate sleep and to control both emotional and psychological well-being. If not controlled then sleep disorders can contribute-

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritation
• mood swings and even difficulty in managing stress.

Over the time, chronic sleep deprivation may also affect memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities.

➤ Social and Professional Effects

Sleep disorder does have an impact on daily performance and relationships thereby causing fatigue, decreases productivity, reduce focus. Individuals who are struggling with work or school, experience lower job performance, and it is difficult to maintain a healthy social interaction.

Treatment Options for Sleep Disorders

Treatment depends upon the type of sleep disorder individuals are encountering with. But some of the major one’s are-

Changes in lifestyle

People suffering with any sleeping disorder, should maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

Try to create a comfortable environment for sleep.

Consuming caffeine and alcohol intake should be limited.

Exercise on regular basis

Before bedtime it is advisable to reduce screentime

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is often considered one of the most effective treatments for chronic Insomnia. This technique helps individuals to identify and change thoughts along with behaviour that can interfere with the sleep.

Medical treatments

Depending upon the type of conditions, healthcare expert may recommend some of the sleep medications.

There can be continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for sleep apnea.

Medications recommended for restless legs syndrome

Wakefulness-promoting drug to control narcolepsy.

Treatment of underlying medical conditions.

Following relaxation techniques which include meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness practice, and yoga.

When to seek medical expert advise

Medical expert advise is required when you are experiencing difficulty in sleeping, facing excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep attacks, breathing pauses, sleeping problems affecting day to day functioning.

Doctors even suggest some preventive measures and they are-

People are advised to go to bed during the same time each day.

Avoid consuming large or heavy meals during bedtime.

Keeping bedroom cool, dark and quite.

Management of stress.

Avoid using electronic gadgets during bedtime.

Conclusion

Sleep disorders are quite common among these days and affecting physical health, mental condition, and even daily performance. It is advised for an early recognition, proper diagnosis, and also appropriate treatment.

By undertaking all of these, quality of sleep and overall life can be improved. Moreover, it is advisable to follow a healthy living and seeking medical expert help at the right time is very important.