Sleeplessness Causes and How to Get a Good Night's Sleep
Sleeplessness is the No.1 complaint among adults when asked about their health, and it's no surprise. The amount and quality of the sleep we get plays a huge role in our overall health. Poor sleep can lead to lackluster performance at work and school, poor immune function, and an increased risk of long-term health complications like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
Sleeplessness causes, however, can cover a broad spectrum. Only your doctor can help you determine what may be causing your sleeping problems, which may be a variety of things including:
Stress - This is the top cause of sleeplessness among adults. Identifying the stressors in your life and practicing relaxation techniques can help you get a better quality of sleep.
Sleep disorders - There are over 70 different types of sleep disorders, and they run the gamut from mild to severe. Some can be treated with home sleep remedies, but some require medical attention.
Heredity - Many sleep disorders run in families, so it is important to know whether anyone in your immediate family also suffers from some form of sleeping problem.
Environment - Comfortable bedding, temperature, no distractions, and other environmental factors can all play a part in how well you sleep.
Gender - Women are more likely to develop symptoms that cause sleeplessness due to constant hormonal fluctuations associated with menstruation.
Once you and your doctor pinpoint your sleeplessness causes, you can begin to develop a treatment plan that works best for you. The type of treatment prescribed depends on the cause and severity of your sleeplessness. You may be instructed to practice different sleeping habits, referred to sleep therapy, or prescribed medications. Regardless of what sleeplessness causes you may be experiencing the result of, your doctor can help put the correct steps in motion to get a good night's rest.