If someone is suffering chronic loss of sleep these important functions soon become impaired, overall health is usually affected as is a person s memory and mood. They become a hazard to themselves and others, especially if operating machinery or driving. Yet despite this alarming news the number of people suffering from sleep deprivation is rising. Anyone who s raised or is raising a family knows that babies and children aren t conducive to a good night s rest. Illnesses, either our own or a loved one s, also rob us of sleep.
Some people suffer bouts of insomnia.
Sleeplessness that lasts a few days or weeks is usually the result of some kind of stress. Once the stressor is removed normal sleep patterns usually resume. Chronic insomnia is another matter. It occurs when muscles at the back of the throat become overly relaxed and block the airway. 1 in 2000 people suffer from this condition and once diagnosed it s controllable by changing one s lifestyle or taking medication.