Unfortunately, sleep disorders are very common. A recent survey shows that around 50-70 million US adults have a sleep disorder. In order to understand them, we first must know how sleep is normally regulated. Our body normally works in a Circadian Rhythm – an internal 24-hour clock that is tuned by a sleep hormone called melatonin.
Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in the brain, and its secretion is increased when it’s dark, indicating that it’s time to go to sleep. When it’s light and the production of melatonin is decreased, our body receives a signal that it is time to wake up or be awake. Simply put, this hormone plays a vital role in determining our sleep and wake pattern. If our body’s internal clock is disrupted, we will experience a sleep disorder.
Sleep deprivation and sleep disorders should be taken seriously because they can have severe consequences on our physical and mental health. Many studies have indicated positive correlation between sleep disorders and medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and even depression. Apart from affecting our physical and mental health, disturbed sleep patterns can also significantly impact our personal and professional life.
In order to be in good health, it is crucial to fight your sleep disorders anyway you can. Circadian Rhythm can be disrupted due to many reasons. Surprisingly, you mattress may also be the one to blame. Despite the fact we spent around third of our lives sleeping, most of us don’t have a proper mattress to sleep on. People recognize the importance of sleeping on a quality mattress, but since it’s an expensive investment, we rather choose to wake up every morning tired, tense and disgruntled than to replace it. But did you know that sleeping on an old or simply wrong mattress can cause much more than a pinch in your neck or low back pain?
How a Mattress Can Affect Your Sleep and Health
If your mattress is more than seven years old, it’s probably filled with dust mites and other microscopic creatures that can trigger allergies and severely disrupt your sleeping pattern. If you frequently sneeze and cough in your bedroom or have issues with nasal congestion or Itchy, red or watery eyes, you are allergic to these buggers who are hiding in your mattress. Frequently washing sheets and pillowcases can get them out of your linens, but it won’t get them out of your mattress.
Apart from allergies, a bad mattress can also weaken your immune system, cause premature aging, and decrease your libido. When we consider everything mentioned, even though buying a new mattress is expensive, sleeping on the wrong one you will make you pay a much higher price. It is better to spend money on a new mattress than to jeopardize your health.
As we age, our sleep needs change. So, your mattress may have been the right in the past, but it’s not anymore. If there are no signs of visible damage or overuse, but your mattress still doesn’t feel comfortable as it did before, your body is sending you a signal that it is time to make a change. Not sleeping as well as you used to at home is a sufficient and valid reason to head to the mattress store.
Note!
It is very important to point out that sleep disorders and sleep deprivation aren’t the same. However, sleep deprivation that has lasted for a long time will turn into insomnia and even require medication to get your sleeping cycle back to normal. Although your mattress may not be the primary cause of your sleep disorder, if it’s old and saggy and causes pain and discomfort, it will make your problem only worse. If you think your mattress may be the cause of your sleep deprivation, act before your sleep pattern becomes permanently disrupted!
A Good Mattress Can Help You Alleviate Sleep Disorders
Top mattresses for sleep disorders are the ones that are non-toxic and have therapeutic effects. Mattresses for most common sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, insufficient sleep disorder and restless leg syndrome must be designed in a way to relieve pressure points and prevent tossing and turning. Memory foam mattresses are usually the ones that will do the trick because they are cool and comfortable, yet they provide great support. These three features are crucial for alleviating insomnia.
When it comes to sleep apnea, most people find medium firmness, proper head support and high-contouring the most vital characteristics a mattress should have to alleviate insomnia. It is important to remember that sleeping on a good mattress cannot cure a sleep disorder, but it can significantly alleviate its symptoms, and ensure you have a better night’s sleep.
Have in mind that there isn’t only one type of mattress that is best for everyone who suffer from sleep disorders. Some individuals prefer memory foam, while others prefer latex or gel mattresses. That is completely normal. However, it is a fact that saying goodbye to your old mattress and getting a new one is a first step forward toward ending your sleep disorder.
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