Sleep Disturbance

SNOMED Terms

• Circadian rhythm sleep disorder due to alcohol

• Posttraumatic stress disorder

• Sleep terror disorder

Goals

• Restore restful sleep pattern.

• Feel refreshed and energetic during wakeful hours.

• Terminate anxiety-producing dreams that cause awakening.

• End abrupt awakening in terror and return to peaceful, restful sleep pattern.

• Restore restful sleep with reduction of sleepwalking incidents.

Behavioral Definitions

• Complains of difficulty falling asleep

• Complains of difficulty remaining asleep.

• Reports sleeping adequately, but not feeling refreshed or rested after waking.

• Exhibits daytime sleepiness or falling asleep too easily during daytime.

• Insomnia or hypersomnia complaints due to a reversal of the normal sleep-wake schedule.

• Reports distress resulting from repeated awakening with detailed recall of extremely frightening dreams involving threats to self.

• Experiences abrupt awakening with a panicky scream followed by intense anxiety and autonomic arousal, no detailed dream recall, and confusion or disorientation.

• Others report repeated incidents of sleepwalking accompanied by amnesia for the episode.

Diagnoses

• Primary Insomnia

• Primary Hypersomnia

• Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder

• Nightmare Disorder

• Sleep Terror Disorder

• Sleepwalking Disorder

• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

• Major Depressive Disorder

• Dysthymic Disorder

Effects of Sleep Disturbance

Here are some common effects of sleep disturbance:

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Impaired Cognitive Function: Sleep disturbance can impair cognitive function, leading to difficulties with concentration, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making.

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Mood Changes: Lack of quality sleep can affect mood regulation, leading to irritability, mood swings, and emotional instability.

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Physical Health Problems: Chronic sleep disturbance is associated with an increased risk of various physical health problems, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and weakened immune function.

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Interpersonal Problems: Sleep disturbance can strain relationships with family members, friends, and colleagues. Irritability, moodiness, and decreased patience resulting from poor sleep can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings in interpersonal interactions.

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Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic sleep disturbance can significantly reduce overall quality of life by impairing daily functioning, reducing productivity, and limiting participation in social and recreational activities.

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Mental Health Impacts: Sleep disturbance is closely linked to mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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Impaired Immune Function: Sleep plays a crucial role in supporting immune function, so sleep disturbance can weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

How does Sleep Disturbance affect your life?

Here's a breakdown of how sleep disturbance can negatively impact your life:

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Day-to-Day Functioning:

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• Reduced Energy Levels: Feeling tired and sluggish throughout the day makes it difficult to complete tasks, concentrate at work or school, and participate in activities you enjoy.

• Increased Risk of Accidents: Drowsiness impairs coordination and reaction time, putting you at a higher risk of accidents while driving, operating machinery, or even walking.

Mental and Emotional Well-being:

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• Mood Swings and Irritability: Lack of sleep can make you more prone to mood swings, emotional outbursts, and general irritability.

• Anxiety and Depression: Sleep disturbance can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression, and may even contribute to developing these conditions.

• Difficulty Concentrating and Focusing: Cognitive abilities are impaired, making it hard to focus on tasks, learn new information, or make sound decisions.

Physical Health:

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• Weakened Immune System: Chronic sleep problems make you more susceptible to getting sick as your body doesn't have enough time to repair and fight off illness.

• Increased Risk of Chronic Diseases: Sleep deprivation has been linked to a higher risk of developing chronic health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity.

• Weight Gain: Sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite, leading to increased hunger and cravings, potentially contributing to weight gain.

Overall Impact:

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• Decreased Quality of Life: Chronic sleep problems can significantly reduce your overall quality of life, affecting your physical and mental health, relationships, work performance, and ability to enjoy daily activities.