How Important Is A Good Night's Sleep
Many people do not understand the significance of sleep. Sure after a restless night of sleep, such as occurs when a baby cries, then we may realize that we really don't feel well if sleep does not come easily. A bad day of sleep can lead to decreased memory, irritability, and concentration problem. Short term sleep loss certainly reorients us to the fact that it is important to get a good night's sleep.
But, are sleep disorders dangerous? In other words, can someone die from a sleep disorder? The answer is, unfortunately yes. Abnormal sleep can kill people by the degree of sleepiness that it causes, and by medical complications of poor sleep, particularly in the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
Medical research has shown that an individual who stays up for twenty four hours and then attempts to drive a vehicle has the reflexes of someone who is legally intoxicated. People who have untreated OSA have a 3-7 times increased risk of a motor vehicle accident. Sleep disorders are particularly important therefore in people who are involved in occupations which involve driving, transportation, or operating machinery. In private industries, sleep disorders can be compounded by the fact that people may increase their risk for industrial injury, death, or dismemberment.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, characterized by snoring and pauses in breathing along with daytime sleepiness, is associated with increased risks of stroke, congestive heart failure, hypertension, obesity, and possibly atherosclerotic disease. In extreme cases, untreated OSA can cause sudden death, which tragically occurred in the case of former NFL star Reggie White.
Sleep is important. If you or a loved one has concerns about a significant sleep disorder, please call us at (318) 448-4999.
Dr. Foret is a Board Certified Sleep Physician with Cabrini Sleep Center in Alexandria.
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