Medical problems that cause poor sleep

Maxwell Adeyemi

SLEEP IS an essential aspect of our overall health and well-being. However, many individuals struggle with falling asleep due to various factors, including medical conditions. Inability to fall asleep, also known as insomnia, can have a significant impact on our daily lives, affecting mood, productivity and overall quality of life.

While occasional sleep disturbances are common, persistent insomnia can be a sign of an underlying medical problem. Such medical problems need to be identified and treated in order to alleviate the sleep problems they may cause.

1. Chronic pain

Chronic pain is a prevalent medical problem that can significantly disrupt sleep. Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraines and back pain can cause discomfort and make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. Pain can also lead to frequent awakenings during the night, further exacerbating sleep disturbances.

It is essential for individuals experiencing chronic pain to work with their healthcare provider to manage pain effectively, which in turn can improve sleep quality.

2. Mental health disorders

Mental health disorders, such as anxiety, panic disorders, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can contribute to difficulties in falling asleep. These conditions often involve racing thoughts, heightened arousal and emotional distress, which can make it challenging to relax and unwind at bedtime. Individuals with mental health disorders may also experience nightmares or vivid dreams, leading to disrupted sleep.

Addressing the underlying mental health condition through therapy, medication, or other treatment options can help improve sleep patterns.

3. Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterised by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. This interruption in breathing can cause frequent awakenings throughout the night, preventing individuals from falling asleep and staying asleep. Common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, daytime fatigue, poor concentration and morning headaches.

Individuals suspected of having sleep apnea should consult with a sleep specialist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

4. Restless leg syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is a neurological condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations such as tingling, itching, or a crawling sensation. Restless leg syndrome symptoms typically worsen during periods of rest or inactivity, making it challenging to fall asleep. The movement and discomfort associated with restless leg syndrome can significantly disrupt sleep patterns.

Treatment options for restless leg syndrome may include lifestyle changes, medications, or specific therapies to address the underlying neurological factors.

5. Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD, is a digestive disorder characterised by the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This condition often leads to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation and discomfort, particularly when lying down. The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux can significantly interfere with falling asleep and may lead to disrupted sleep throughout the night.

Lifestyle modifications, dietary changes and medications can help manage gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, improving sleep quality.

6. Thyroid disorders

Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can affect sleep patterns. Hypothyroidism can lead to fatigue, depression and weight gain, while hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, irritability and weight loss. Both conditions can disrupt sleep and make it difficult to fall asleep at night.

Treatment for thyroid disorders generally involves medications to regulate thyroid hormone levels, which can help stabilise sleep patterns.

7. Chronic respiratory disorders

Chronic respiratory disorders, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, can have a significant impact on sleep quality. These conditions can cause shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and discomfort, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep. The symptoms of respiratory disorders may worsen at night due to lying flat, leading to further sleep disruptions.

Appropriate management of these respiratory conditions through medication, breathing exercises and lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and improve sleep.

8. Neurological disorders

Certain neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to difficulties in falling asleep. This is particularly common in elderly people with Alzheimer’s and can often be a source of stress for their carers and family members. These conditions may cause motor disturbances, cognitive impairments and changes in the sleep-wake cycle, all of which can affect the ability to initiate sleep.

Managing these neurological disorders with appropriate medications, therapies and lifestyle modifications can help improve sleep quality.

9. Hormonal imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can also play a role in disrupted sleep patterns. For women, hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause can lead to difficulties falling asleep. Women at menopausal age are prone to these sleep disruptions which can be a cause for concerns and anxieties. The hormonal changes can cause night sweats, hot flashes and mood disturbances, all of which can disrupt sleep initiation.

Proper management of hormonal imbalances through hormonal therapy, lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques can help improve sleep quality.

10. Stress

Stress from any cause including physical, mental, emotional, relationship, career, financial and family can be a tremendous source of sleep disturbance in many people. The use of and abuse of substances such cigarettes, marijuana and other psychoactive substances to mask, cope or deal with stress can also disrupt sleep.

It is better to seek appropriate counsel and treatment for stress from a qualified professional to ease the discomfort and sleep problems that stress may present.

If you or your relatives are experiencing significant sleep disruptions, you should consult your healthcare provider so that the cause can be identified and if it is due to any of these medical conditions, then appropriate intervention can be made to alleviate the problem.

Contact Dr Maxwell on 3631807 or 7575411