Sleep disorders definition
One third of our life is spent sleeping. Sleep is essential to the recovery of physical and mental strength, he participated in the balance and quality of life. Sleep is divided into a series of cycles an hour and a half, and every night, four to five successive cycles.
Sleep consists of two phases: slow-wave sleep (for recovery from physical fatigue) and REM sleep with dreams (for the recovery of mental fatigue). Sleep needs vary greatly from one individual to another, the average duration of sleep in adults is 8 hours (with great sleepers and short sleepers) and overall, more a topic ages, he sleeps less . Insomnia sleep disorders are the most frequent hypersomnia is the opposite trend.
Risks and consequences of sleep disorders
Our era abuses the sleep patterns (busy schedules, jet lag, stress ... permanent). Thus, two out of three complain of sleep disorders should be taken care of, because sleep is a way to relax from the tension of the day and plays a role in growth (in children) the assimilation of knowledge and emotional and intellectual development. The elderly are more prone to sleep disorders such as insomnia.
Causes and origins of sleep disorders
In most cases, insomnia is transient, linked to an identifiable cause such as stress, taking stimulants (coffee, tea, alcohol, drugs), dinner too rich or jet lag. A vicious circle s' installed when the anguish of not sleeping ... in turn prevents sleep!
How to exhibit sleep disorders?
Insomnia is characterized by difficulty or inability to sleep or sleeping. Lack of sleep quality and quantity, with the following impact on the personal and professional life. Difficulty falling asleep with their lot of thoughts and concerns arise from the anxiety. In case of stress or depression, difficulties predominate during the second half of the night with awakenings and inability to sleep.
Nighttime awakenings are also a form of insomnia, whether early and / or repetition. In all cases, it is necessary to identify the cause.
Hypersomnia or narcolepsy, rarer, manifested by sleepiness the day: sudden sleepiness occur several times per day.
With what should we be confused sleep?
The sleep apnea syndrome is repeated interruptions of breathing during sleep with as many brief awakenings, not stored. Weight loss surgery equipment or improve symptoms.
Similarly, insomnia can be secondary to a systemic disease (hyperthyroidism, gastroesophageal reflux, asthma ...) the treatment of insomnia due solves.
Is there a prevention possible?
The majority of insomnia are preventable by lifestyle changes simple rules: Do not consume stimulants (coffee, tea, vitamin C, cola ...), avoid exercising or stimulating activity in the late afternoon or evening focus on relaxing activities, avoiding rich meals and watered ...
A good sleep hygiene involves respecting the regularity rhythm of sleep and learning to detect signals of sleep (yawning, itchy eyes ...). The room must be reserved if possible sleep and sexual activity (no TV, no office ...) bedding and pillows ergonomically adapted promote quality sleep.
Some recipes natural, non-addictive, can also help with sleep: sedative infusions (chamomile, linden, vervain, valerian, passionflower) herbal medicines and trace elements (lithium).
When to consult?
Once sleep disorders have an impact on the diurnal life (fatigue, sleepiness ...) or generate anxiety before bedtime should be consulted for the vicious circle does not create. Talk to your doctor who decide whether or not to treat you or to send you a specialist.
What is the doctor?
In most cases, the doctor can handle insomnia. Specialized centers offer consultations and examinations in cases of refractory insomnia or difficulties. In addition to consulting, additional tests are proposed as polysomnography (sleep recording) inpatient or outpatient tests Iterative falling asleep or otherwise maintaining sleep.
Different types of treatments are available to treat insomnia. Provide the sleeping pills and tranquilizers generate an artificial sleep but, of course, a degree of dependence. It should therefore be used only on prescription and temporary (4 weeks). The acupuncture or homeopathy can be equally effective.
How to prepare my next visit?
To identify its rhythm and sleep patterns, a sleep diary can be held and talked to the doctor to write down the times of sunset / sunrise, events and overnight activities or treatments.
In addition, here are some tips before the consultation center and sleep polysomnography: make a shampoo before the exam to facilitate registration (sensors on the head), provide a nightgown that does not put on the head , note taking any medication or treatment change.
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