Causes of Sleep Deprivation

The causes of sleep deprivation are varied. It could be caused by snoring, or it may be caused by the more serious condition of sleep apnea. Sleep deprivation causes must be determined before they can be treated. This is most commonly done with a sleeping study, which can be arranged by your physician.

There are currently over seventy sleeping disorders that have been identified by scientists and rest study programs. However, the causes of sleep deprivation may not be related to a rest disorder in all cases. Often, emotional stress, excitement, or eating habits are causing or may prevent falling asleep. Often people who are weighed down with problems in their lives suffer from short term bouts of insomnia. They are not able to turn their thoughts off and fall asleep. This is very common, but again, it should be a short term problem.

If a person becomes excited before going to sleep, this can also cause lack of sleep. For instance, many brides and grooms do not sleep well the night before the big day. A child who will be having a birthday the following day or who is looking forward to Christmas morning may have trouble falling asleep. These instances are quite common, and there is no need for concern. Again, this is a very short term problem.

Sleep disorders that cause or are causing sleep deprivation, however, are more serious. If you cannot determine a cause for your sleeping problems, then you should seek the advice of a physician and have a sleep study done to determine what has caused or is causing your lack of rest. Prolonged sleep deprivation can lead to multiple health problems if it is not treated in a timely manner.