Sleep disturbances affect nearly everyone at some point. They occur when you have trouble falling or staying asleep, which leads to daytime fatigue or sleepiness.
Some common types of sleep disturbances include:
- Insomnia - difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Sleep apnea - pauses in breathing during sleep
- Restless leg syndrome - urge to move legs when lying down
- Narcolepsy - falling asleep unexpectedly during the day
What causes sleep disturbances?
There are many potential causes, such as:
- Stress or anxiety
- Underlying health conditions - asthma, depression, chronic pain, etc.
- Medications
- Sleep environment - too noisy, light, hot/cold, or uncomfortable
- Disruptions to circadian rhythm - jet lag, shift work
Managing sleep disturbances
Here are some tips:
- Follow a regular sleep schedule
- Limit exposure blue light before bedtime
- Avoid large meals, alcohol, and caffeine before bed
- Make sure your sleep environment is cool, dark and quiet
- Do relaxing activities before bedtime
- Get enough natural light exposure earlier in the day
If self-help strategies don't work, see your doctor or a
sleep specialist. They can help identify any underlying issues and provide personalized treatment options.
"At Hormone Revive, we understand the impact that hormone imbalances can have on sleep. We provide cutting-edge testing and treatments to help patients address the root causes of their sleep issues. Our exceptional team of physicians and health coaches takes a whole-person approach to improve sleep and optimize wellness. Contact us today to learn more!"
In some cases, medications or devices may be recommended, such as:
- Sleep aids
- CPAP machine for sleep apnea
- Light therapy box
The key is getting an accurate diagnosis of any underlying problem causing the sleep disturbance.
Ongoing sleep issues shouldn’t be ignored - they can take a toll on both physical and mental health over time if not properly addressed.
Prioritizing healthy sleep habits is important. But when disturbances persist despite your best efforts, be sure to talk to your doctor or a sleep medicine specialist for help getting the rest you need. Quality sleep is vital for health and functioning. You don’t have to struggle with sleep issues alone - help is available.