What is Poor Sleep Quality?
Poor sleep quality refers to sleep that is insufficient or disrupted, preventing an individual from waking up feeling refreshed and restored. Common symptoms associated with poor sleep include:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Frequently waking up during the night
- Waking up too early
- Still feeling tired after a full night's sleep
There are many factors that can contribute to poor sleep quality, including:
- Stress or anxiety - Racing thoughts and worrying can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Nocturia - The frequent need to wake up and urinate at night can disrupt sleep cycles.
- Environmental factors - Noise, light, uncomfortable room temperature, or an uncomfortable mattress can impact sleep quality.
- Health conditions - Sleep apnea, chronic pain, and other medical issues may interfere with sleep.
- Medication side effects - Some prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines can cause sleep disturbances.
The effects of poor sleep quality are wide-ranging. Not getting enough quality sleep on a regular basis has been linked to:
- Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
- Diminished mental performance and productivity
- Increased errors and accidents
- Weakened immune system
- Weight gain/obesity
- Increased inflammation and health issues
To help improve sleep quality, try:
- Establishing a relaxing pre-bed routine to unwind
- Going to bed at the same time each night
- Making sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and screen time before bed
- Getting regular physical activity and exposure to sunlight
Occasional nights of poor sleep are normal, but talk to a healthcare professional at Vitality Health Clinic if ongoing poor sleep quality is interfering with your daily life. Getting to the root cause and finding solutions can help restore restful slumber over time. Sweet dreams!