Diseases That Can Instigate A Sleep Disorder

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

Some types of heart disease can also affect sleep patterns. For example congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease. These issues will naturally put the patient under pretty strict medical supervision.

Sufferers of the two heart diseases listed 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 serious consequences too, including elevated blood pressure, which makes it difficult if it is not treated.

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

The only real remedy 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 called CPAP.

Diabetes can cause Restless Leg Syndrome, which involves the involuntary thrashing about of the legs during sleep. This leads to a very restless night for both the sufferer and the partner as the kicks can get quite violent – absolutely enough to kick a football. Thyroid problems can lead to nocturnal perspiration 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 illnesses 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 – usually also those of sleep fragmentation and insomnia.

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

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

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

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