Sleep. You need it to live.
Just as a healthy diet and regular exercise are necessary and important for good
health, so is sleep.
Sleep deprivation
can affect your overall
health both mentally and physically. Although scientists are still trying to fully
understand why we need sleep, it not only appears necessary for our nervous systems
to function, but sleep is necessary for our very survival.
Good sleep can help you fight disease, concentrate on work and allow you to feel
ready to start your day.
Sleeping does more than keep your mind clear, it also has an impact on your immune
system. In fact, studies have shown that long-term sleep deprivation increases your
risk of high blood pressure and diabetes. Sleep-related problems can also
play a role in stroke, asthma, epilepsy and seizures.
How much sleep do you need?
There's more to a good night's sleep than just falling asleep. Staying asleep is
also important. The amount of sleep each person needs depends on many factors, including
age:
- Infants: approximately 16 hours per 24-hour period
- Teenagers: about 9 hours per 24-hour period
- Most adults: 7 to 8 hours per 24-hour period
These are average figures. Some people may need only 5 hours and some may need as
many as 10 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Pregnant women, especially in the
early months, need more sleep than usual. As people get older, they may sleep more
lightly and for shorter times, but generally need the same amount of sleep they
needed in early adulthood.
How do you know if you are not getting enough sleep?
Experts say that if you feel drowsy during the day, even during boring activities,
you haven't had enough sleep. You may have
sleep deprivation
or even a
sleep disorder
if you fall asleep within five minutes of lying down. You could have sleeping issues
if you are experiencing very brief episodes of sleep called
microsleeps.
If you have a sleep disorder or think you may be suffering from sleep deprivation,
there is help available. The first step is to talk with your healthcare professional about the best
treatment for you. Before you do, you may want some help preparing to talk with your healthcare professional and some help preparing for
questions your healthcare professional may ask you.
Next: Causes Of Insomnia
