Not sleeping enough; find out why

If you don’t sleep well, once in a while, it is ok. But if it a problem getting sleep night after night, then be aware of the reasons and see if they can be self-managed or else seek medical help.

Chronic (long-standing) lack of sleep is called insomnia, and it seems to affect more women than men.

THE REASONS:

Age – Between the ages 50 and 60, people tend to sleep lighter.

Gender – Women are more prone to disruption in their sleeping patterns.

Stress of marriage – Unhappy marriage can lead to disturbed sleep.

Life on the fast track – Though a hectic lifestyle should help you sleep early and good, it doesn’t happen, because there is too much happening in the backgroud. Switch off from office issues, unwind and then hit the bed for a sound sleep.

Health problems – Health problems (whether acute, chronic, curable, incurable) give rise to sleep deprivation due to constant nagging pain.

Eating at night – Eat supper as if a pauper. The last meal before going to bed should be light. Rather snack on healthy foods the whole day long.

Mental disorders  – 50 % of those who have insomnia (or difficulty getting sleep) have anxiety disorder. It is good to see a doctor in such cases.

Daytime napping – It can decrease your overall need for sleep and this continues even in the night.

It is good to see a doctor as soon as you notice sleep disturbance challenging your day.

Dr. Ajay Sati.