Having Trouble Sleeping?
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In today’s fast world, many, if not most people are just getting too little sleep and it is becoming a growing concern.
It has been estimated that one third of all Americans get too little sleep. Sleep deprivation can cause many serious side effects, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
In the United States alone, it is estimated that approximately 60 – 80 million people have some form of sleep disorder. This number continues to rise. Several of the reasons for the increasing numbers are the aging of the American population, the change in our lifestyle and the obesity epidemic. Of course there are other factors that can lead to a sleep disorder, such as stress, shift work, illness or genetics.
There are many different types of sleep disorders. They range in severity from minor to life threatening. People of any age, from infants to the elderly, can be affected by a sleep disorder at any time in their lives with absolutely no warning symptoms.
As sleep disorders increase in the United States, so do the dangers that are associated with them. Tiredness can lead to slower mental alertness and a slower reaction time. This can be a very dangerous combination. Between 20 – 25% of all serious auto accidents involve an over-tired driver. Many of these drivers suffer from some form of sleep disorder and they aren’t even aware of it. A large number of accidents that occur at home or at work are also due to people with some type of sleeping problem.
Lack of sleep is directly related to many physical ailments and conditions. People that do not get sufficient sleep generally suffer more form headaches, sore joints and stomach problems. Often a sleep disorder is an underlying cause of heart problems, lung conditions and diabetes. Sleep disorders can also affect the mental well being of people stricken with them. Mood changes, anxiety, eating disorders and depression can result.
Many people still do not think of a sleeping problem as a medical problem. Because of this, many never tell their physician that they are having trouble sleeping. Even if they see their doctor on a regular basis for a checkup, illness or other condition, they never mention that they are having difficulty sleeping.
As the American public and medical community become more educated and aware of the symptoms, effects and severity of various sleep disorders, more and more cases are being diagnosed. These days people who suffer from sleep disorders are being treated with medication, oxygen, cpap machines and even surgery in severe cases.
There are better screening methods and diagnostic tests which find sleep disorder problems earlier. Overnight sleep centers no longer resemble a hospital room. They are now designed to look more like a hotel room, to make the patient feel more comfortable. In some cases, due to computerization and miniaturization, equipment can be so small that some testing can even be done at home.
Sleep is not an option or a luxury. It is a basic element of living and of good health. If you think you, your partner or your child may be suffering from a sleep disorder see your doctor or healthcare specialist as soon as possible. A sleep disorder is a medical problem that can be successfully treated.
About The AuthorPaul Crittenden was a long-time insomnia sufferer until he stumbled onto something that allowed him to enjoy a great sleep virtually every night. To learn how you can beat insomnia and enjoy a truly restful night’s sleep yourself, please visit SleepWinks.com. |
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