Poor Sleep Linked To Obesity, Diabetes, Poor Mental Health: Expert

APP

Islamabad: Quality sleep is essential for overall good health as a lack of sleep has been associated with obesity, Type 2 diabetes, poor mental health, accidents while driving, attention or behaviour problems, and poor school performance, said sleep expert.

Sleep expert Dr Mehrin Suleman stated that every person needs to take care of their body as a whole, and sleep is a keystone to that whole process. Power naps, which are also short in duration, help our body conserve energy and boost productivity.

She shared her views in connection with the World Sleep Day, which was celebrated on March 17. The celebration was aimed to highlight better prevention and management of sleep disorders. It is a great reminder to spread awareness about sleep hygiene as well.

Dr Mehrin informed that those who are taking specific medications or have health issues may need to sleep for a little longer than usual.

Idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) is a sleep disorder in which the patient requires more sleep than a typical person would. IH may affect about 20 persons out of every million, told expert, adding that excessive daytime sleepiness is a typical symptom of IH and may be so severe that it is difficult or impossible to get through the day without falling asleep.

Dr Suleman mentioned that naps frequently last an hour or longer and that the majority of patients with idiopathic hypersomnia indicate that even extended naps do not help them feel less sleepy.

People with idiopathic hypersomnia should be cautious to avoid driving, using heavy machinery, or engaging in other harmful activities while they are weary. Extreme sleepiness can make some activities more dangerous.