Sleep deprivation occurs when one is suffering from the condition of not getting enough restorative sleep for our bodies. A chronic sleep-restricted state can cause fatigue, daytime sleepiness, clumsiness and weight loss or weight gain. It adversely affects the brain and cognitive function as well as having the potential to severely affect the health and well-being of the sufferer, particularly where it is allowed to continue for long periods, untreated. While the temptation may be to reach for cheap sleeping pills to combat the problem, this is unfortunately only a short-term solution, to a potentially far more serious long-term problem. It is highly advisable to consult with your doctor to fully get to the bottom of what may be causing your sleep deprivation to safely and effectively treat it with a sustainable solution. Humans have a natural sleep drive which builds throughout the day while we are awake. This grows into the evening until we eventually feel an overwhelming 'pressure' to sleep. Sleep pressure is then relieved as we sleep, until we wake up and the process starts once again. When one is suffering from sleep deprivation, there is no relief to this pressure, which just serves to ‘build up’ as the sleepless nights continue. Some of the more common causes of sleep deprivation include; insomnia, shift work which disrupts the natural sleep-wake cycle, sleep apnea, untreated pain such as toothache, hormonal imbalances, chronic illnesses and of course, many new mothers frequently complain of sleep deprivation. Consistent sleep-wake patterns of going to bed late, frequent nighttime arousals or waking up early can also lead to sleep deprivation and the accumulation of “sleep debt”. It is important to try and get to the bottom of what is causing your sleep deprivation, however- firstly it is important to get some good, restorative sleep- and again with the help of your doctor, get yourself a good sleeping pills prescribed. With a few good night’s rest under your belt, you are going to be able to think a lot clearer, which will go a long way in being able to correctly treat your sleep deprivation problem.
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