What is Sleep Medicine?
Sleep Medicine is a specialized branch of healthcare dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing sleep disorders. It covers conditions like insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), restless legs syndrome (RLS), narcolepsy, and circadian rhythm disorders. With nearly 1 billion people worldwide affected by OSA and 30-40% of Indian adults at risk, addressing sleep disorders is crucial for public health.
Why Should Healthcare Professionals Study Sleep Medicine?
50% increased risk of hypertension
Poor sleep keeps the body in a stressed state, leading to high blood pressure. People sleeping less than 6 hours have a 50% higher risk of hypertension. Treating sleep disorders can help prevent heart disease and stroke.
80% of people with depression suffer from sleep issues
Sleep disturbances affect 80% of people with depression, worsening mood and stress levels. Poor sleep reduces serotonin and dopamine, increasing mental health risks. Addressing sleep can improve emotional well-being and cognitive function.
Diabetes risk increases by 2-3 times with chronic sleep deprivation
Lack of sleep disrupts insulin function, raising diabetes risk by 2-3 times. Sleep deprivation increases sugar cravings and weight gain, worsening metabolic health. Managing sleep can help prevent and control diabetes.
Why Sleep Assessments Matter in Healthcare
Integrating sleep medicine can transform patient care and improve health outcomes.
- Improve patient outcomes by diagnosing and treating sleep disorders
- Prevent complications like heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline.
- Enhance management of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
- Provide holistic care for better mental and physical well-being.