Better sleep is the key to better health

Getting enough sleep with an active lifestyle plays a vital role in one’s overall well-being and getting 8 hours of sleep a day is essential to rectify this pattern, but many people find it difficult to stick to this schedule. There are a wide variety of factors that contribute to this and not everyone’s sleepless pattern is due to the same reason.

Dr. Sunil Singlela, Director and HOD, Neurology, Sanar International Hospitals shares some of the factors that can disrupt our sleep patterns:

Melatonin Hormone Balance: It is a hormone produced by our brain in response to darkness that controls our sleep-wake pattern. Irregular production of this hormone due to overexposure to light during the night can even lead to insomnia, anxiety and stress in severe conditions. In urban cities, extreme use of smartphones and other gadgets while sleeping has almost become a habit that affects sleep patterns. One should avoid using electronic gadgets before sleeping.

Stress and other psychological problems: Often one may feel tired but find it very difficult to fall asleep and feel uncomfortable trying to stay in one position. These are the symptoms of stress or early signs of mental health problems. Analyze and accept issues that cause discomfort or stress and consult a mental health professional for a comprehensive solution to remedy it.

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delayed sleep: Sleep avoidance itself is a problem that causes irregular or disturbed sleep. Therefore, try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule so that our body can adjust to it. Occasionally we may have an erratic schedule that can delay our normal sleep times, but making it a habit can wreak havoc on our bodies.

sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is one of the most common health problems today. People who snore while sleeping in particular need to be more aware as many of them experience interrupted sleep. This is one of many sleep apnea symptoms that can have short- or long-term health consequences. In case of predominant complaints, consult a medical specialist.

Dr. Singlela shares steps to get your sleep pattern right:

• Try to reduce screen time, especially at night.

• Your mattress should be comfortable to fall asleep on.

• Avoid drinking drinks such as coffee, alcohol or tea before going to bed.

• Avoid smoking and tobacco use.

• Be aware of your mental health and consult a specialist if necessary.

• Try to maintain an optimal level of darkness while sleeping.

• Maintain a work-life balance.

If symptoms persist, consult a medical professional immediately, as none of the above tips are a substitute for medical advice.

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