What Causes Trouble Sleeping?

Having difficulty sleeping at night can cause several side effects, both physical and mental. These effects range from mild to adverse. Lack of sleep can, for instance, induce headaches and reduce concentration levels.

The majority of people experience sleeping difficulties at least at one point in their life. Sleeping difficulty can last from a few days to weeks. It is, however, treatable by professional dentists.

Causes of sleeping difficulties

There are many problems that can be triggered by sleep difficulties, especially in adults. They range from minor to severe causes. Sleeplessness is caused by issues spanning from lifestyle choices, medical conditions to sleeping habits.

Although minor causes are usually reversible via slight tweaks in self-care, severe cases require medical professionals.

• Aging – Aging is the leading cause of sleeping difficulties.
• Over-stimulation before bedtime – Over-stimulation is broad. There’s no precise definition for one activity. Excess stimulation before bedtime may include exercising, noise disturbances, feelings of excitement, uncomfortable bed, playing a video game, consuming excessive caffeine, or watching television for long hours.
• Day-time sleep – Sleeping during the day is also a cause for trouble sleeping at night.
• Prescription medications – Some medications cause difficulty in sleeping.
• Physical pain – Physical pain such as accident or assault may cause you to lack sleep
• Lack of sunlight – Staying too much indoors results in a lack of sleep
• Stress/worry/depression – When the mind is too engaged or worried, you will have difficulty sleeping.

Sleeping disorders

• Insomnia

Insomnia is a sleeping disorder in which you have trouble staying awake or falling asleep. It is usually followed by a day of low energy, sleepiness, depressed mood, and irritability. It can be short-term or long-term.

The disorder can occur on its own or due to other conditions such as menopause, heartburn, heart failure, chronic pain, drugs, or some medications—lifestyle adjustments such as sleep hygiene help to contain this condition. Also, cognitive behavioral therapy may be explored if the condition is more profound.

• Restless legs syndrome

It is a disorder that causes an irresistible impulse to interchange legs. It’s caused by itching or unpleasant sensations, which are relieved during sleep. The condition has no known cure and doesn’t necessitate lab tests.

• Sleep apnea

There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and mixed sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is, however, the most common type of sleep apnea. OSA involves a blockage of upper airways.

OSA affects at least 2 % and 4% of women and men, respectively, around the world. Even though treatment is available, not all individuals get the ideal treatment. Approximately 10% of the patients do not get treatment.

Some common symptoms of sleep apnea include snoring, loud gasping, and choking. All individuals experiencing these symptoms are usually unawares. Since sleep apnea occurs due to blocked airways, every time the blockage occurs, there is reduced blood flow to the brain, thus causing it to wake partially. Gasping and snorting occur as a patient tries to take deep breaths. This process may happen once or keep repeating itself till you get the help of a skilled dentist. Recurrence depends on the complexity of sleep apnea.

Relationship between Sleep Apnea and Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)

Sleep apnea and GERD are two conditions that, despite appearing unrelated, they have awed researchers. Roughly 60% of the people who experience sleep apnea have chronic gastroesophageal reflux. GERD occurs when the esophageal sphincter remains open, causing gastric acid to flow back into the esophagus. GERD symptoms include chest pain, sour taste in the mouth, and heartburns.

Even though a clear correlation has not been identified, researchers have established that treating one condition improves the other condition. A study that tracked 48 adults that experienced GERD at least thrice in a week was conducted. Individuals with acute GERD symptoms also experienced the worst sleep complications.

Conclusion

Sleep difficulties are a challenge affecting many people. Even though some conditions related to sleep problems do not require medical intervention, others need it. The best time to visit the dentist is when you identify the first symptoms.

Are you wondering where to find a dentist near you? The dentists at Sacramento Natural Dentistry in Citrus Heights offer expert dental services. Request an online appointment with the dentist in 95610 to bring an end to your sleeping problems.