Sleep problems are affecting more than a third of the adult population. The most common sleep problems are; Sleep apnea, Narcolepsy, Restless Legs Syndrome, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder and Insomnia.
Although there are more than 100 types of sleep disorders, there is one symptom that a majority of them share and that is sleep deprivation. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for restoration and in the development of the body and mind. Without it we are likely to experience more than one of the following:
- Irritability or sleepiness during the day
- Difficulty concentrating at work
- Poor performance at work
- Tired aching muscles
- Difficulty remembering things
- Feel as though you are unable to cope with stress
- Slow to react in situations
- Feel like napping during the day
- Rely on stimulants such as caffeine to keep you going
The most common problem is insomnia. Sufferers experience a considerable lack of quality sleep. This can result in insufficient sleep to meet the needs of the body, or to allow you to feel refreshed and energetic throughout the day. Insomnia can be classified as transient, intermittent, and chronic.
Causes are often stress related, or due to poor sleep habits or psychiatric condition. Thousands of accidents a year occur due to falling asleep or loss of concentration, mainly while driving or operating dangerous machinery. Its total cost, in terms of illness, injuries, and decreased quality of life is staggering.
There are various ways to tackle insomnia including relaxation, stress reduction, behavior modification as well as alternative therapies such as hypnotherapy. For most however, the sleeping pill has become the favored choice to combat insomnia.
Little known to most sleeping pills are generally bad news as they will break down your body’s natural cycle and make it very difficult in the long term. Studies have shown that the effects of prolonged use of sleeping pills have an overall negative effect on the sufferer and has been concluded that sufferers of insomnia are better off without them.
Unfortunately insomnia can affect us all regardless of gender, age or race, it does not discriminate. If you are experiencing from one of the following, you might be at risk of developing a sleep disorder;
- Disruptive sleep environment
- Excessive intake of stimulants such as caffeine
- Illness
- Obesity
- Shift work and night shifts
- Traveling frequently between different time zones
- Depression or any other psychological disorder
- Excessive stress
- A poor sleep routine
- Frequent daytime napping
Fortunately it is possible to reduce the risk of developing sleep problems, such as paying attention to your lifestyle and consulting with your doctor to learn how you can improve your health. Educate yourself about sleep, its stages and also how you can develop healthy sleep habits.
