When we refer to sleep disorders , we mean all conditions that occur during sleep or wakefulness that prevent a person from sleeping properly and getting enough rest to ensure the healthy functioning of both body and mind.
These alterations in sleep patterns are generally divided into three main categories:
- Insomnia
- Excessive daytime drowsiness
- Uncommon behaviours during sleep
Within these categories, we find disorders that affect patients of all ages and genders. However, they are more frequent in children and the elderly. Examples include:
- Insomnia
- Sleep apnea
- Sleepwalking
- Restless legs syndrome
- Bruxism
- REM sleep behavioural disorder
- Night terrors
Whenever these symptoms appear, it is essential to seek an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Otherwise, lack of rest directly affects both physical health and mental well-being.
How Do Sleep Disorders and Inadequate Rest Affect Quality of Life
During the day, the body activates several systems, endocrine, neurological, immune, respiratory, digestive, and others, to function properly in both the physical and psychological spectrum.
Sleep restores balance in these systems and prepares the body for the next day. During this period, the body regenerates tissue and regulates metabolism.
The amount of sleep needed to complete these processes depends on factors such as age, lifestyle, nutrition, and environment.
When rest is not sufficient, serious health problems can arise, such as:
- Memory Loss
Sleep is organized into cycles lasting 90–100 minutes. To achieve restful sleep, about 4 to 5 cycles are needed each night (approximately 8 to 9 hours).
People who sleep 6 hours or less per night usually experience physical problems due to inadequate regulation of the body. This often results in reduced logical reasoning, poor concentration, and memory loss.
- Premature Aging
Cell regeneration occurs mainly during sleep.
This renewal maintains the structural integrity of organs. Without restorative sleep, organs stop functioning properly.
The brain and neurons are especially affected, increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Weakening of the Immune System
Insomnia reduces the production of immune cells responsible for defending the body.
People who do not sleep enough are more vulnerable to bacterial infections and inflammation, including in the oral cavity, such as composite veneers.
This increases the risk of gum and dental infections that can lead to serious diseases.
A weak immune system also hinders recovery from dental treatments, such as Invisalign , and increases the likelihood of swelling, bleeding, and gum disorders.
- High Risk of Obesity and Diabetes
Sleep plays a key role in regulating metabolism. Scientific studies show that lack of sleep is strongly associated with weight gain, obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
Sleep-deprived individuals often consume more high-calorie, fatty foods, compromising oral health, its procedures, like dental veneers, and general health.
Additionally, inadequate sleep interferes with insulin production, leading to glucose buildup after meals.
In addition, it causes difficulty in insulin production, leading to glucose accumulation after meals. Over time, this increases the risk of diabetes and heightens susceptibility to gum disease, especially when proper hygiene of porcelain dental appliances or the oral cavity is not maintained.
Treatment and Advice to Ensure Restful Sleep
A restful night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Therefore, establishing habits and treatments that regulate sleep and improve rest is fundamental.
Set a consistent sleep schedule and incorporate nightly routines such as bathing and cleaning your Invisalign . Ensure your environment is dark, quiet, and comfortable.
Avoid distractions such as cell phones or television before going to bed. A cup of calming tea may also help you sleep better. If you experience significant symptoms of sleep apnea, consult a specialist right away.
This content was developed by the Lógica de Mercadoblog team, a network dedicated to boosting business while promoting quality of life and health.
