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People sleep in order to function in a healthy and normal way. Sleep is a dynamic process during which the brain is very active.
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. This does not include yet those other millions of people who are suffering from occasional sleep problems.
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.
Age is a significant factor in determining the amount of sleep that a person needs to function normally. Infants, for instance, sleep most of the day for about 16 hours while teenagers usually need about 9 hours a day.
Adults need an average of 7 to 8 hours of sleep a day. However, people in the more advanced age groups spend less time in the deep stages of sleep and have shorter periods of sleep instead.
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.
A person’s health can be detrimentally affected by inadequate sleep. Studies have shown that sleep is essential for normal immune system function and for healthy cell growth. 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. Normal adequate and complete sleep keeps an individual ready to learn, focused and alert.
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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