Most people have experienced it – tossing and turning throughout the night where vital shut-eye feels just out of reach. While the occasional evening of restlessness is probably no cause for concern, some people have real difficulty falling asleep each night. Here we look at a few ways to help you improve that nightly slumber – and when a visit to your GP might be in order.
The Importance of A Good Night’s Rest
According to the South African Society of Sleep Medicine (SASSM), approximately 30 to 40% of adults experience bouts of insomnia, with at least 10 to 15% indicating theirs is severe. Sleep is a necessary function that most species in the animal kingdom rely upon for survival. It’s more than merely rest; it is the opportune time for the human body to shut down, refresh, and rejuvenate itself. It helps in memory and cognitive functioning, and essentially acts as a time of self-maintenance and repair for our bodies. Lack of sleep, on the other hand, has been shown to weaken the immune system, slow mental and physical reaction times, reduce performance in day-to-day tasks, and even lead to conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
Your GP may recommend around seven to nine hours of sleep each night, though the amount you need will vary depending upon your age and nap habits during the day.
Improving Your Sleep Patterns Naturally
Every human has an internal process that determines sleep-wake cycles. This process is known as your circadian rhythm. While the hypothalamus in the brain controls these natural cycles, they are also influenced by your routine, external lighting, and substances you consume. People who have a stable daily schedule and stick to the same routine make the most of their circadian rhythm, which aids in improved sleep. A disruption in this rhythm is what leads to difficulty catching those ZZZs.
You may be struggling to determine the root cause of your inability to fall or remain asleep. In this case, a visit to your GP will prove useful. Together, you may be able to weed out some unhealthy habits that contribute to sleep disturbances, such as:
If you feel that you might be struggling with chronic tiredness and fatigue due to insomnia, feel free to book an appointment with a GP near you using our booking tool.