Wake up to the seriousness of sleep-disorders

New Delhi, March 25: A good night’s sleep is imperative for good health. Sleeplessness is not considered a serious health problem but it can actually affect every aspect of our life.

Irregular sleeping habits may lead to several lifestyle disorders like hypertension, acidity, heartburn, poor concentration and memory loss.

People who have problems getting sound sleep at night or those who wake up too early and feel exhausted through out the day might be suffering from sleep-related disorders.

Stress, competition, lack of physical activity, excessive screen time and sedentary lifestyle have all made insomnia or the inability to fall or stay asleep a common problem. In addition, certain psychological factors, substance abuse, the side effects of some drugs and some medical conditions may also keep people from sleeping well during the night.

Experts insist that on must never compensate sleep in pursuit of material gains. One should never deprive his body of the rest it requires.

“As sleep is vital to our health and well being, we must not cut ourselves short from the amount of sleep that we get. Effective management of sleep problems begins with a visit to your doctor,” says Medical expert Dr Ramnathan Iyer, the west regional governor of the Indian Sleep Disorders Association (ISDA).

“Early assessment and action can prevent short-term sleep problems from developing into a chronic one. Your doctor is the best person to determine the cause of your sleep complaint and recommend the best course of action.”

Besides making you prone to several diseases, lack of sleep may also cause lower productivity and inferior work quality, lethargy, irritation, forgetfulness and, in time, strained relationships. Obesity can also be the outcome of inadequate sleep since it affects the metablosim.

The ISDA in association with Abbott India Limited has declared March as Sleep Awareness Month to raise awareness about the significance of sleep and the importance of addressing sleep disorders at the earliest.

“Take control of your sleep problems before it takes control of you,” Iyer advised.