Inability To Sleep
In order to function in a normal and healthy way people need to sleep. The brain is very active during this dynamic process we call sleep.
Why can’t I sleep? What sleep disorders are causing me not to sleep?
Every year in the United States alone, millions of people are diagnosed of suffering from long term chronic sleep disorders. There are also people who suffer from occassional sleep difficulties and they are not included in these figures.
There are more than 70 different sleep disorders that are generally classified into one of three categories:
- Lack of sleep – Insomnia
- Disturbed sleep – Obstructive sleep
- Excessive sleep – Narcolepsy
Sleep disorders, when properly diagnosed, can be easily managed. Insomnia, occurring more in the elderly and among women is one of the most common of sleep disorders. People with sleep disorders can take over-the-counter sleep aid drugs, which are most effective for an occasional sleepless night.
A significant factor that determines the amount of sleep needed by a person to function normally is age. While teenagers need to sleep for about 9 hours a day, infants on the other hand, need about 16 hours of sleep a day.
Adults need an average of 7 to 8 hours of sleep a day. However, the elderly usually have shorter periods of sleep and spend less time in deep stages of sleep.
About 50% of adults over the age of 65 have some type of sleep disorder, although it is not clear whether this is a normal part of aging or a result of medications that older people commonly use.
The ability to sleep and to wake up is influenced by various chemical changes in the brain and in the blood. There are certain foods and medicines that alter the balance of these chemicals which also affect how well we sleep.
Examples of these are caffeine which can cause insomnia, and antidepressants which can cause a loss of REM or Rapid Eye Movement in sleep. Also, smoking and alcohol can greatly contribute in a loss of deep sleep. The normal sleep cycle consist of bothe the essential REM and Deep Sleep cycles.
Avoid mixing alcohol and sleep aid drugs. No matter how small the amount, it can cause dizziness, confusion and even fainting apart from increasing the sedative power of the pills. Alcohol in itself can already cause insomnia.
Sleep inadequacy can have severe detrimental effects on health. It has been established through case studies that healthy cell growth and the normal functioning of the immune system depend upon adequate nightly sleep. Sleep also is essential for normal nervous system function and the ability to function both physically and mentally. The additional benefit of adequate sleep is the prevalence of relaxed attitudes. A person who always gets enough and complete sleep is generally more focused and ready to learn.
When you are having a hard time getting a good night’s sleep, prescription or over-the-counter sleep aid drugs may be an option. These should be taken on the advice of a physician, used safely and with caution. If your doctor suspects a sleep problem, he or she will look at your overall health and sleep habits.
For more information on sleeping disorders please visit ‘Why Can’t I Sleep‘
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