Sleep Deprivation Dangers

There are some alarming studies about what happens to the body with consistent lack of sleep. The findings range from lack of concentration to increased risk of cancer.

The first thing to look at is what constitutes enough sleep. While it is highly individual, seven to nine hours is the normal range. Those getting less than seven hours are the people who are in danger.

What exactly are these dangers? Obesity, heart disease, cancer, car accidents, inability to concentrate and even memory difficulties can be the result. In fact, drowsy driving can be as dangerous -- and as prevalent -- as drunk driving.

The second thing to do is find out if you are at risk. A sleep study can show both how long you stay asleep per night and whether or not there are underlying health problems that prevent enough deep sleep. Once you know the problem, you may be able to resolve it.

Mood Disorders: Many problems, such as anxiety and depression, can alter sleep patterns. Some of these problems can only be dealt with by your doctor, especially if you are diagnosed with major clinical depression or bipolar disorder.

If the problem is minor, counseling, aromatherapy and herbal remedies might be useful. Chamomile and lavender, both as aromatherapy and in a tea, are often helpful. If something stronger is needed, jasmine and passionflower can be added.

Insomnia: There are a lot of causes of insomnia. However, you may be able to deal with this on your own, once the doctor has ruled out other problems. Most important is that you don't read, use a computer, text message or watch television in your room. Your subconscious has to accept that the bedroom is for sleeping.

Darkness is important to sleep. We have a lot of things in our rooms that give off light, including alarm clocks and other electrical devices. If possible, turn them off or cover them so the light isn't visible.

While you are developing the habits needed you will probably still have problems. If you have lain in your bed for an hour without falling asleep, get up and go do something else for a while. Read a book, watch television -- but not in your bedroom. After half an hour, try again. You may have to repeat this process many times before it will sink in.

If your doctor approves, valerian might also be useful. It is used by herbalists to help people with insomnia. One word of warning, it smells worse than well used gym socks.

Sleep Apnea: This is a big problem, and most of those who have it don't know it. If you have it, your spouse probably does know it, though not the name. It is very frightening to listen to.

What happens is that something obstructs your breathing while you are asleep. You stop breathing until your brain wakes you up enough to take in a deep breath. You rarely wake up totally -- unless your spouse pokes you and makes you roll over.

This is a potentially deadly problem. It can cause several heart problems including high blood pressure and heart attacks.

There is a common clue that you have this problem. It's called snoring. That's why I said that you may not know you have it but your spouse probably does. Have him or her describe what happens so that you can get the treatment you need to stay alive.

Sleep deprivation is something that can be treated. It is in the best interests of all of us if it is taken care of as soon as possible. Ignoring it could change your life forever.