According to the American Association of Sleep Apnea, 50 to 70 million Americans suffer from sleep-related problems. If you’re not getting seven or more hours of sleep each night, you’re probably one of those affected by a sleep disorder such as insomnia, sleep apnea, or narcolepsy. Chronic sleepiness affects more than just your energy levels, it affects your overall health and well-being as well.
Good sleep matters. If you feel sluggish and inadequate throughout the day, now is the time to find a solution. Along with visiting a sleep doctor, a dentist who specializes in dental sleep medicine. These two experts can work together to find a conservative, effective treatment option to help you achieve adequate sleep and improve your life!
Here are five reasons to improve your sleep quality today:
1. Higher levels of concentration
When we sleep, our brains remove any waste and toxins that have built-up throughout the day. This is the reason it’s easier to concentrate and be productive in the mornings.
If you find that it’s difficult to complete work tasks in the morning, afternoon, or evening, sleep deprivation could be the cause. One of the most common signs of sleep deprivation in children is being distracted or disruptive in class. Sleep doctors recommend adults sleep for at least seven hours a night and children eight. Any less and the brain won’t work as well as it could.
2. Prevents heart disease
Another incredible thing that happens when we sleep is that our blood pressure regulates. Unfortunately, this means that patients who suffer from sleep apnea, insomnia, and other sleep conditions are more likely to suffer from poor heart health.
If you’re suffering from one of these conditions, visit a sleep expert as soon as possible.
3. Thwarts depression
Studies have found that sleep deprivation affects our mood more than our cognitive and motor functions, especially in teenagers. Over time, sleep loss can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and alcohol use.
Oversleeping is known to have some of these same effects. It’s important to create a consistent sleep schedule to improve and stabilize your mental health.
4. Lowers risk of obesity
People who consistently get the appropriate amount of sleep have more energy and tend to be more active throughout the day. They also experience better coordination, higher performance intensity, and faster speed.
Studies have also suggested that the right amount of sleep helps a person consume fewer calories each day. Together, these lower a person’s risk of obesity.
5. Strengthens immune system
When we sleep, our bodies release proteins called cytokines. These fight against infections and inflammation. More cytokines are released when your body is trying to ward off any type of sickness. Consequently, when a person experiences sleep loss, these proteins don’t have sufficient time to do their job.
If you find that you aren’t getting enough sleep at night, or just want to help your body fight a cold, take a couple of thirty-minute naps throughout the day!
Sacramento Sleep Apnea Treatment
If sleep apnea is keeping you from getting the sleep you need to live a high-functioning, healthy life, there is hope. Dr. Timothy E. Mickiewicz has dedicated his career to providing safe and effective alternative treatments to patients in need. For sleep apnea patients, the treatment could be as simple as a mandibular advancement device.
To learn more and to schedule your initial consultation, contact our office today at (916) 469-9178.
