Sleeping Problems
Irregular sleeping patterns
For example working at night, if this is infrequent making the adjustment can be easy, however if irregular sleeping patterns are more frequent it can be more difficult to adjust. This can be seen with shift workers, doctors, nurses or new parents. The effect of this can be likened to jet lag when you find yourself sleeping at times when you would be normally awake.
In order to make the adjustment back to regular sleeping patterns you
should aim to wake up at the same time each morning, and try not to fall
asleep before 10 pm at night, repeat this for a few days.
Too much sleep
If you get enough sleep at night but still fall asleep during the daytime a physical illness could be responsible. Such illnesses can include diabetes, thyroid problems and viruses.
Another condition that can cause daytime sleeping is Narcolepsy.
Symptoms include:
· Daytime sleepiness, which comes in uncontrollable waves regardless of what you are doing or where you are.
· Sudden loss of muscle control when excited leading to collapse (also know as cataplexy).
Sleep Apnoea
· Stopping breathing for short intervals whilst sleeping, and loud snoring. Caused by narrowing and partial closure of the airway.
· Sudden awakening with a jerk, caused by the loss of breathing.
· This can be repeated a number of times during the night leaving the sufferer very tired the following day.
Sleep apnoea is often more common in smokers, the elderly, the overweight and in those who consume large amounts of alcohol.
Sleepwalking
The sufferer of sleepwalking will engage in activities that would normally be carried out when awake whilst asleep or in a sleep like state. Unless awoken the sleepwalker will not remember anything of the event. If found the sleepwalker should be guided back to bed without being woken up. Sleepwalking can sometimes be induced by a night terror.
Night Terrors
A person suffering from night terrors will awake suddenly in a frightened half awake state. In most cases they will fall back to sleep without completely awakening, however in some cases as seen above they can lead to sleepwalking. The sufferer will have no recollection of the event the next day. It is reported that approximately 1 in 20 adults will suffer from night terrors.
Nightmares
The vast majority of people will experience nightmares at some point in their lives. Nightmares are usually brought on by a disturbing, distressing or highly emotional event such as an accident, death or emotionally stressful event. It has also been reported that consuming large quantities of cheese before sleeping can cause nightmares! Nightmares will usually occur in the later part of night during the most vivid dreams. If you suffer from regular occurrences of nightmares professional help should be sought.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Symptoms of RLS:
· Constant moving of the leg whilst sleeping.
· Uncomfortable pains and/or burning feelings in your legs.
· Temporary relief of pains and symptoms due to exercise.
· Pains only present when resting.
· Worsening of the symptoms at night.
· Restlessness during the daytime.
· History of RLS in the family.
Treatment of RLS depends mainly upon the severity of the condition, less severe cases can often be treated with improvements in sleeping arrangements, More severe cases can involve treatment with medications. RLS can also be brought on by another illness and conditions these can include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies and pregnancy.
Autism
In some cases it can be difficult for a person with autism to understand that they should sleep during the night time.
Factors that can cause sleeping problems:
· Noise
· Heat and Cold
· Uncomfortable sleeping conditions (bed, mattress, pillows).
· Partner problems (differing sleeping routines, snoring etc)
· Irregular routine
· Lack of fitness
· Poor diet
· Alcohol, nicotine and caffeine.
· Sickness
· Emotional problems
· Work difficulties
· Anxiety
· Depression