Sleep disorders are highly prevalent in India, with numerous studies shedding light on the issue. For instance, according to a study published in Lancet, approximately 28.8 million individuals, constituting around 5.4% of the Indian population aged 30-69, are at a moderate or severe risk of sleep apnea, a common sleep disorder. Unfortunately, awareness about these challenges and sleep disorders remains poor in our country. Moreover, the significance of quality sleep is often underestimated. Sleep, considered the third pillar of fitness for overall health, is still not given due importance.
It’s crucial to raise awareness about the challenges associated with sleep and encourage action if one experiences difficulties. To delve deeper into this issue, the editorial team at Onlymyhealth spoke with Seema Arora, Business Head – Consumer & Digital, South Asia, ResMed, who is actively promoting awareness about the importance of good sleep and educating people about sleep disorders through the #AwakenYourBest campaign.
Different kinds of sleep disturbances
Numerous sleep disorders exist, yet the predominant ones, comprising 90%-92% of overall prevalence, are insomnia and sleep apnea.
1. Insomnia
Insomnia entails difficulty falling or staying asleep, often attributed to factors such as excessive screen time before bed or the stresses of modern life, making it a common disorder in today’s society.
2. Sleep apnea
Another prevalent sleep disorder, especially common in India, is obstructive sleep apnea, commonly known as sleep apnea. One of its primary symptoms is snoring, often mistaken as harmless. However, it can signify the presence of this disorder. Additional symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating due to poor sleep quality. With sleep apnea, individuals may be asleep but fail to achieve restorative sleep. Severe cases can also involve breathing difficulties during the night. The combination of snoring, daytime sleepiness, and nighttime breathing challenges characterizes sleep apnea, contributing significantly to the global prevalence of sleep disorders, totaling close to 92%.
Ways to address sleep disturbances
Improving your sleep can be a gradual process, particularly given the demands of modern lifestyles, where many are deeply engaged in high-pressure jobs. Nonetheless, prioritizing healthy sleep habits can significantly aid in achieving better rest. Simple adjustments such as reducing screen time before bed, regular exercise, and maintaining a balanced diet can contribute to a more restful sleep experience.
Certain sleep disorders, like sleep apnea, require specialized attention. Consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatments such as CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy, commonly prescribed for sleep apnea, can greatly improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Incorporating lifestyle changes, seeking medical guidance, and utilizing treatments like CPAP machines are effective approaches for managing various sleep disorders. Additionally, undergoing a One Sleep Test (OST) can help identify any underlying sleep issues for further evaluation and treatment.