Sleep Problems You Must Solve For The Sake Of Your Health

Posted on: 14 July 2015

At one point or another, every person will have difficulty sleeping. For some, the troubles persist for just one night. On the other hand, others will struggle for days and weeks on end. Some people have hectic schedules while others suffer from sleep disorders. Some sleep disorders are often overlooked as odd sleeping habits, but they can actually negatively affect your health or be signs of larger problems. These are some common sleep problems that can actually affect your health, and you should talk to a doctor if you are experiencing any of these things:

You are a snorer.

Snoring as you sleep is often based on the narrowing of the airway due to one's weight or even simply the shape of the mouth. Unfortunately, snoring may indicate sleep apnea, an important health issue that could lead to heart disease and stroke. With up to 9% of women over 30 experiencing this condition, it is not something to brush off. Instead, consider speaking with your doctor about setting up a mask and machine that will keep the airway open.

You wake up with a sore jaw after a night of grinding your teeth.

Teeth grinding can lead to some serious problems, including headaches and sawed down teeth. Ultimately, you just can't sleep well when you are grinding your chompers. For most people, the activity is associated with anxiety or an abnormal bite. Your dentist may recommend sleeping with a mouth guard, but if the problem is stress-related, then relaxing before bed and going to therapy may treat the issue.

You never seem tired, even after a long day of work.

Many individuals have delayed sleep-phase syndrome, and up to 10% of people who experience insomnia may be affected by the condition. People with this condition might not produce enough melatonin, a sleep hormone, until it is very late in the night. Unfortunately, this condition also comes with a higher risk of high blood pressure and diabetes. It is important to learn good sleep hygiene, which includes no electronics before bed and no caffeine after the afternoon. You may even take a melatonin supplement before bed to help wind down.

You walk, eat or even go outside while you are sleeping.

About 4% of adults in America sleepwalk, but some go on to do other things. Sleepwalking often stems from sleep deprivation and taking some sedatives, including benzodiazepines. If you aren't doing anything risky, sleepwalking isn't a big risk. Just make sure to safety-proof your home. Pick up clutter, put away the sharp objects and make sure you can't fall down the stairs. You might also be able to ask your doctor for additional sleepwalking solutions.

Sleep is a necessity, but it is not one that comes easy to each person. If you want to make sure that you are getting the best sleep possible, talk to a home health doctor, such as those at All Stat Home Health, to ensure that you are not putting yourself at risk.

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