By Agbai Sharonjoyce
The relationship between sleep and human health is well documented. Researchers have linked health disorders such as hypertension to sleep quality and duration. Identifying sleep disturbances early on can greatly prevent the risk of developing certain health complications.
Sleep is not a passive state but a vital process that restores the brain and regulates the body. Quality sleep influences overall wellbeing–physically, mentally, emotionally.
For individuals living with chronic diseases, sleep is especially critical. Insomnia, for instance, has been linked to stress, cognitive decline and weakened immune function.
In addition to lifestyle adjustments and exercise, sound sleep plays a prominent role in helping people with conditions like diabetes and hypertension manage their health more effectively.
Patients with poor sleep patterns negatively affect how patients manage chronic illnesses. Studies show that patients with irregular sleep often struggle to adhere to treatment, including consistent medication use and disease monitoring.
One study found that 60% of patients with poor sleep patterns could not maintain regular blood glucose compared with 35% with good sleep patterns.
Lack of healthy sleep is strongly associated with increased complications and poor health outcomes.
Research also links poor sleep to depression and anxiety, which further harm mental health and worsen existing chronic conditions.
When mental health declines, patients often lose motivation to follow self-care practices that are necessary for disease management.
Poor sleep affects physical health
Beyond health risks, poor sleep also affects daily performance. Adults may experience reduced productivity at home and at work, while teenagers face difficulties at school. Poor sleep impairs concentration, slows reaction times and reduces accuracy, making even simple tasks more time-consuming.
How to improve your sleep
Practise Sleep hygiene exposure: Using a consistent sleep schedule, e.g., sleeping and waking up at the same time every day, ensuring a quiet environment for sleep time, avoiding heavy food at night and exercising regularly.
Use Relaxation techniques: Focus on taking deep breaths once tensed, practising meditation and self-mindfulness and awareness.
Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia: Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia is a very effective treatment for insomnia that gives long-term benefits. It reduces the risk of relapse and restores sleep mechanisms.
Poor sleep patterns are associated with reduced self-care, poor adherence to medical treatment and mental health issues. For people living with chronic diseases, prioritising quality sleep is essential. Improved sleep reduces stress, restores brain function, enhances productivity and lowers the risk of worsening health conditions.
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