Poor sleep quality - Renew Health Clinic

Poor sleep quality refers to any aspects of sleep that prevent someone from feeling rested and restored the next day. Getting insufficient or fragmented sleep is the main contributor to poor sleep quality. Common signs of poor sleep quality include:

• Difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Frequent nighttime awakenings
• Feeling unrested after a full night in bed
• Daytime tiredness, fatigue, or sleepiness
• Impaired concentration and memory
• Irritability and mood changes

Poor sleep has many potential causes, including:

• Stress, anxiety, or depression
• Underlying health issues like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome
• Medications, alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine use
• Environmental factors like noise, light, or uncomfortable mattresses

Over time, chronic poor sleep takes a significant toll on physical and mental health. People with ongoing sleep issues face higher risks for:

• Weakened immune function
• Weight gain and obesity
• Heart disease and stroke
• Diabetes
• Accidents or injuries
• Lower life expectancy

To improve sleep quality, experts recommend focusing on sleep hygiene practices like:

• Going to bed and waking up at consistent times
• Limiting exposure to screens before bedtime
• Avoiding large meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime
• Making sure your bedroom is cool, quiet, and comfortable
• Winding down with relaxing activities before bed

If self-help strategies don't resolve chronic insomnia or daytime fatigue, consult your doctor at Renew Health Clinic. They can check for underlying conditions and may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or temporarily prescribe sleep medication. The bottom line is that prioritizing healthy sleep plays a vital role in wellbeing. Addressing any factors leading to tossing, turning, or restless nights is crucial for supporting energy, performance, and longevity. Monitoring sleep quality and making lifestyle changes to enhance it can help people wake up feeling truly refreshed.