How To Know If You Are Sleep Deprived

INTRODUCTION: It is  recommended that everyone needs to sleep 7 to 9 hours every night and it is  estimated that at least 30% of American adults don't! If you or someone close to you is one of those suffering from less than the sleep needed to function at your peak performance, determining you are sleep deprived is the first step to getting more sleep. If you are willing to do something about it, getting more sleep might change your life for the good.

STEP 1: Examine the main causes of sleep deprivation and determine how many might be creating problems for you. The short list of reasons that trigger sleep deprivation includes alcohol consumption, stress, a new baby, drugs (both prescription and illegal), work, moving, traveling, changes in relationships, light changes,  pets, an uncomfortable bed, noises, health and exercise.

STEP 2: Examine your sleep environment. As important as how long you sleep, how often and how well you sleep are equal contributors to the development of sleep deprivation symptoms. Getting the recommended number of hours of sleep does not preclude having symptoms of sleep deprivation.

STEP 3: Look at yourself carefully to determine if you have any of the symptoms of sleep deprivation. Look for a pattern of symptoms not associated with a night of celebration or a double work shift. Some of the symptoms are more easily recognized by others, so pay attention to friends that make comments on how tired you look or how grouchy you are becoming. Here is a short list of the major symptoms easily detectable: blood-shot eyes, fogginess, fatigue, weight gain, increased appetite, seeing things, forgetfulness, memory loss, confusion, tremors*, headaches, puffiness or bags under the eyes, temper tantrums, irritability, yawning, depression*, obesity*, heart problems*, breathing problems*, diabetes*, death.

*If you are experiencing any of these more serious symptoms, they demand your immediately attention  – contact your doctor while you still can.

TIPS: Temporary fixes are not recommended for the long run. If you are sleep deprived, you need to change the problems that are causing you to not get enough of the proper type of sleep to lead a fulfilled life. If you determine that you or someone close to you is suffering from sleep deprivation, now is the time to take action and take charge of your life. There is lots of help available on the Internet and at the Library. Your health care professional might have some suggestions, especially if they can rule out or diagnosis a physical problem that may be interfering with your rest.

WARNINGS: Serious sleep deprivation symptoms need you immediate attention! Even minor symptoms can effect your job performance, driving ability, and the rest of your health.

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