Illnesses That Can Cause A Sleep Disorder
We all know that having a cold can give you sleepless nights, but there are other more significant illnesses that can result in sleeplessness too. However, it is not only the illnesses themselves but the medications too can cause restless nights. Some of the most common diseases that can result in an interruption of sleep are: arthritis, kidney disease, mental illness, acid reflux, diabetes, thyroid issues and neurological disorders.
Some kinds of heart disease can also affect sleep patterns. For instance congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease. These problems will obviously put the patient under fairly strict medical supervision.
Sufferers of the two heart diseases mentioned above run a high danger of developing obstructive sleep apnoea. Obstructive sleep apnoea is a less serious disease than any heart disease, but it can have significant consequences too, including raised blood pressure, which makes it difficult if it is not treated.
The problem with obstructive sleep apnoea is that sufferers are normally the last to know about it, because it does not really cause the sufferer any distress although it can still have dire consequences.
The only real remedy for obstructive sleep apnoea is either the loss of weight which is not simple for heart patients or the wearing of an oxygen mask at night, which is known as CPAP.
Diabetes can cause Restless Leg Syndrome, which involves the involuntary thrashing around of the legs during sleep. This leads to a very restless night for both the sufferer and the partner as the kicks can get fairly violent – absolutely enough to kick a football. Thyroid problems can lead to nocturnal perspiration which can make the sufferer feel hot, damp and uncomfortable
Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s epilepsy and strokes can make the sufferer have concerns with REM sleep and insomnia. People who have had a stroke might also suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea.
Sufferers of asthma and other respiratory illnesses will have worries sleeping. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will cause insomnia and sleep fragmentation.
Mental health concerns such as depression, SAD’s and anxiety also lead to sleep disorders – usually also those of sleep fragmentation and insomnia.
GERD and acid reflux cause a burning sensation in the abdomen whilst the sufferer lies down, making it very difficult to sleep during an attack. There are tablets for this that are occasionally effective and raising the head a couple of inches can help as well.
Kidney disease can also cause restless leg syndrome and people with arthritis have problems sleeping because of the pain.
The point about all these causes of a restless night is that it is the underlying cause that is more significant than the consequence – that is, the restlessness. These are significant conditions, some of which can be cured. Once the main problem is solved the secondary one will disappear as well.
Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on many topics, but is now involved with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. If you want to know more, please visit our website at Sleep Apnea Surgery Techniques