By Alex Moore
Sleep is one of the most important needs human beings have. Unfortunately, not everybody can sleep well.
For instance, studies show that roughly half of the total population in America don’t feel they are getting enough sleep and claim that insufficient sleep affects their daily activities. It appears that 35 percent of them rate their sleep as poor and unsatisfactory while 20 percent of Americans state that they don’t usually wake up feeling refreshed.
Not getting enough rest is a serious issue that can severely impact the quality of life. In most cases, sleep deprivation is caused by disorders which develop at a certain point in life, depending on one’s lifestyle. Here are the three most common sleep disorders you need to know.
1.Insomnia
Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, affecting a huge part of the American population. It appears that roughly 60 million Americans are diagnosed with insomnia each year. Those with this condition report having difficulty going to sleep at night, waking up often in the middle of the night and waking up earlier in the morning than planned or desired. Insomnia affects people across all ages. However, older people are the most affected.
Not being able to get enough rest due to insomnia can lead to many problems. For instance, one may experience excessive sleepiness during the day and general lack of energy. Others may have difficulties concentrating, ineffective memory and perform poorly at work or school. In severe cases, insomnia can lead to depression.
Luckily, doctors and medical researchers have managed to develop various treatment strategies for insomnia patients. One cost-effective strategy is to sleep in the correct position. Specialists recommend sleeping on one side to decrease the likelihood of interrupted sleep.
Furthermore, this sleep position facilitates blood flow, it reduces snoring and acid reflux, preventing back and neck pain. For a good rest, specialists recommend choosing the best type of mattress for side sleepers and a cool pillow. Most people use cooling pillows because they absorb excess heat, allowing for quality sleep.
2.Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea affects nearly 10 million Americans. It occurs when a person’s breathing stops for some time during the night because of the obstruction of the repository tract. In response, the brain will partially awaken the person from sleep so that he can breathe harder and get rid of the blockage.
Many people affected with this condition cannot sleep continuously. When the interruption occurs severally, the brain will not have enough time to reset to sleep mode. This means that the body will not get back to the deeper phases of sleep where the organs, tissues and cognitive functions prepare for the next day.
It is possible to treat sleep apnea by employing both medical and natural techniques. One can use the oral appliance therapy (OAT) to prevent the collapse of the muscles and soft tissues in the respiratory tract, keeping the airway open in the process. In severe and unresponsive cases, the doctors may recommend surgery.
Once can also treat sleep apnea by exercising the throat muscles and the tongue. Continued exercise of the muscles in the throat will strengthen them and make them less likely to collapse during sleep. One effective way to exercise these muscles is by gargling with water for at least five minutes twice a day. Other treatment options involve lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and exercising regularly.
3.Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that interferes with the part of the brain that controls leg motion. This condition gives the patient a persistent and sometimes overwhelming need to move the legs and other body parts when resting. Most people develop pulling, burning and itching sensations in their legs.
RLS is considered a sleep disorder because the constant need to move the legs interferes with a person’s quality of sleep. Loss of sleep is one of the most prevalent symptoms of this condition. About 10 percent of adults and 2 percent of children are affected by RLS.
Those who suffer from restless leg syndrome can find relief in home remedies, specialized medicines or lifestyle changes. Sleeping on a regular schedule, use of vitamins, massaging and applying heat or cold on the legs before sleep can also help reduce the side effects of this condition.
Vitamins are important because their deficiency is associated with mild to moderate symptoms of RLS. Experts recommend vitamin B and C supplements. One can also use mineral supplements such as magnesium, iron and folic acid to speed up the recovery process.
Over the counter medications for RLS can help in case there is mild to moderate pain. Drugs such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can reduce the pain significantly. Keep in mind that using these medications for a long period can lead to serious side effects such as ulcers and heart problems.
Conclusion
Having enough sleep at night is highly beneficial for your performance and overall health. Lack of sleep is associated with conditions such as heart diseases, depression, stroke and diabetes.
Therefore, it is important to know how to recognize the symptoms of sleep conditions and deal with them before it is too late.
M r suman says
Alcohol drinking before going to bed and taking recreational drugs can affect sleep, nicotine (smoking) and caffeine (take tea, coffee, and energy drinks). These should avoid in the evenings.
Luis says
I agree , but for some people they sleep better when they are drunk. And for me caffeine is a big problem, I cannot take it past lunch
Shaz Fisher says
Yes, everyone is different and we need to work out our individual best. 😊