Poor sleep quality refers to sleep that is insufficient or disrupted. It means you are not getting enough restful sleep, or your sleep is frequently interrupted throughout the night. Some key signs of poor sleep quality include:
Difficulty falling asleep: Tossing and turning for 30 minutes or longer before you can drift off
Frequent awakenings: Waking up several times at night and having trouble going back to sleep
Light and restless sleep: Never feeling like you reach deeper stages of sleep; feeling restless and tossing and turning
Early morning awakenings: Waking up much earlier than desired and being unable to fall back asleep
Poor sleep quality can have major effects on your health and daily life. Consequences may include:
Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
Difficulty concentrating and reduced productivity
Irritability and mood disturbances
Increased risk of illness and disease
Impaired immune system functioning
Weight gain and increased appetite
There are many potential causes of poor sleep quality, including:
Stress
Noise, light, or uncomfortable room temperature disrupting sleep
Consumption of caffeine, alcohol, or heavy foods too close to bedtime
Underlying health conditions like sleep apnea, arthritis, heartburn, restless leg syndrome
Medications that interfere with sleep
Inconsistent sleep routine
To improve sleep quality, experts recommend:
Establishing a relaxing pre-bedtime routine
Making sure your bedroom is cool, dark and quiet
Avoiding screens for 1-2 hours before bedtime
Getting regular exercise and exposure to daylight
Practicing stress management and relaxation techniques
Following a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
If you consistently struggle with poor sleep and cannot pinpoint the cause, it is best to discuss your sleep issues with a doctor at Equilibrium Hormone Center. They can help identify any underlying issues and provide both lifestyle recommendations and medical treatments as needed.