We all know that having a cold can give you restless nights, but there are other more serious illnesses that can cause sleeplessness as well. However, it is not only the illnesses themselves but the medications as well can cause restless nights. Some of the most prevalent diseases that can result in an interruption of sleep are: arthritis, kidney disease, mental illness, acid reflux, diabetes, thyroid problems and neurological disorders.

Some types of heart disease can also have an effect on sleep patterns. For instance congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease. These problems will obviously put the patient under fairly strict medical care.

Sufferers of the two heart diseases mentioned above run a high risk of developing obstructive sleep apnoea. Obstructive sleep apnoea is a less serious disease than any heart disease, but it can have significant consequences too, including elevated blood pressure, which makes it difficult if it is not treated.

The difficulty with obstructive sleep apnoea is that sufferers are normally the last to know about it, because it does not really cause the sufferer any discomfort although it can still have disastrous consequences.

The only real cure for obstructive sleep apnoea is either the loss of weight which is not easy for heart patients or the wearing of an oxygen mask at night, which is known as CPAP.

Diabetes can result in Restless Leg Syndrome, which involves the involuntary thrashing around of the legs during sleep. This leads to a very restless night for both the sufferer and the partner as the kicks can get fairly violent – absolutely enough to kick a football. Thyroid problems can lead to nocturnal sweating which can make the sufferer feel hot, damp and unpleasant

Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s epilepsy and strokes can make the sufferer have problems with REM sleep and insomnia. Those who have had a stroke may also suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea.

Sufferers of asthma and other respiratory diseases will have worries sleeping. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will cause insomnia and sleep fragmentation.

Mental health concerns such as depression, SAD’s and anxiety also lead to sleep disorders – normally also those of sleep fragmentation and insomnia.

GERD and acid reflux cause a burning sensation in the abdomen while the sufferer lies down, making it very difficult to sleep during an attack. There are tablets for this that are occasionally effective and elevating the head a couple of inches can help too.

Kidney disease can also cause restless leg syndrome and people with arthritis have difficulty getting to sleep because of the pain.

The point about all these causes of a sleepless night is that it is the underlying cause that is more serious than the consequence – that is, the restlessness. These are significant conditions, some of which can be cured. Once the foremost illness is solved the secondary one will disappear as well.

Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on many subjects, but is now involved with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. If you want to know more, please go to our website at Sleep Apnea Surgery Techniques

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