Do You Think You Need a Sleep Specialist?

Everybody suffers from poor sleep quality every now and then. You know you have a sleep issue when this causes increased lethargy during the day, and impacts on your daytime function.

Up all night, counting sheep?

A shocking revelation that a third of adults sleep less than 6 hours per night consistently.

Although the amount of sleep varies depending on the person, sleep specialists recommend between 7 and 9 hours every night for optimal health.

Many people want a quick fix for insomnia with a sleeping tablet. But this is often not the best way to address it.

There could be underlying causes needing to be addressed.

Whether it is stress, poor sleep habits, overactive mind, or another medical condition, every attempt should be made to address the underlying issue, which is why it’s important to consult a doctor if you think you have a problem.

But what if you can cope on less sleep?

Sleep deprivation is not a badge of honour, it’s a trend that’s causing irreparable damage to your long-term health.

Although you can condition your body clock to wake up earlier, you can’t alter your body’s need for sleep.

With continued sleep deprivation, facets of health become negatively affected – like weight and mental focus. If lack of sleep has become an issue, it’s time to seek professional help from a sleep specialist.

Ask yourself the following questions about your sleep? Do you:

Snore loud enough to bother others?
Wake up choking or gasping?
Breathe irregularly during sleep?
Wake up feeling unrefreshed?
Feel lethargic and unmotivated on most days?
Feel emotionally unstable often?
Fall asleep at abnormal times during the day?
Struggle to stay awake during leisurely activities – like sitting quietly watching television or reading?
Frequent napping and feeling exhausted when you can’t nap?
Short term memory loss for simple tasks and things?
Wrestle with concentration on simple tasks at work, school or home?

Start with your own doctor

Your primary care physician should screen you for sleep disorders at regular exams, especially since sleep problems may be linked to medical conditions including high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and obesity, which they would carry knowledge of.

When to see a sleep specialist

Your GP may refer you for a sleep study, which is now often done in the comfort of your own home.

If a sleep disorder is found, it is a good idea to see a sleep specialist to discuss management options and initiate treatment.

Alternatively, if the need for a sleep study is unclear, a consultation with a sleep physician may be helpful in determining the need for further investigation and formulating a management strategy.

Your GP can refer you to a sleep specialist. For more information, you can call 07 3193 5402 https://breathewell.com.au

Do You Think You Need a Sleep Specialist?