Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Sleep Disorder are on the Rise

By Jason McDrarren

Just in the USA, around seventy thousand million people suffer from some sort of sleep disorder. That enormous number rises every year. This is due in part because a large bulk of the population is increasing in age. We are also living different lifestyles today. The increase in obesity is another common cause of sleep disorder. Everything from stress, our genes, and the type of job we have could lead to a sleep disorder.

There many different types of sleep disorders. Some aren't much of a concern while others might be life-threatening. No matter your age, you could be at risk. Children and elderly alike are vulnerable to many of the sleep disorders.

Sleep disorders lead to many social problems. Because sleep disorder cause a person to be more tired and have reduced alertness and reaction time, they affect a person's ability properly function. It is estimated that nearly one quarter of all vehicular accidents are a result of a sleep driver. No doubt many of these drivers are tired because they suffer from one of the many sleep disorders. These accidents cost us dearly in health care and taxes.

Tiredness is only one result of sleep problems. Many people suffer from physical side-effects as well. For instance, headaches, stomach problems, and joint pain are often a result. So too are heart and lung conditions and even diabetes. There are a great number of people that suffer from mood swings, anxiety, or uncontrollable emotions as a result of sleep problems.

There is still a bit of stigma attached to sleeping problems. Many have long believed that sleep wasn't that big of a deal. Unfortunately, these attitudes often cause people not to realize they have a sleep disorder and other people may not seek medical help when it is necessary. Doctors often misdiagnose problems without considering the possibility of a sleep disorder.

As we become more educated and informed on the prevalence and problems caused by sleep disorders we are more likely to identify them and seek treatment. There are many different ways to treat sleep disorders and which treatment should be used depends on what sleep disorder a person suffers from. Many times a simple drop in weight is enough to solve the problems. Other times behavior therapy or medication might be appropriate. Today there are many sleep centers that can be visited. Sleep centers provide the best way to properly identify your particular problem.

As more people begin to understand just how important sleep is our health will increase overall. Sleep is an essential part of healthy living. Like any serious medical condition, a sleep disorder must be taken seriously and proper treatment must be found. If you suspect you may have a problem with sleep then it is advisable to speak with your medical doctor about it.

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