A lack of sleep isn't something to take lightly. According to the Sleep Foundation, people should get 7 to 9 hours of sleep. If you are not getting sufficient sleep, you are putting yourself at risk of various chronic health conditions that can be life-threatening. Whether you are dealing with insomnia or other irregular sleep patterns, it is time to schedule a consultation with Florida Sleep Specialists. Dr. Jeremy McConnell has helped many patients manage sleep disorders in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, and he can help you as well.

What Health Conditions Are Associated With Poor Sleep?

Poor sleep can wreak havoc on your body by putting you at risk for or aggravating existing chronic ailments. According to the CDC, sleep is not a passive state but is vital for brain restoration and regulation, and a lack of it can impair cognitive function. Therefore, poor sleep has been linked to the onset of dementia. A lack of sleep in children can stunt their growth, as the growth hormone is mostly active at night. Mental health is at risk since a lack of sleep can exacerbate depression and anxiety. 

Sleep disorders are also associated with causing inflammation in the body. Inflammation can bring about arthritis. It affects the immune system, making you susceptible to infection and disease. Untreated sleep issues affect your metabolic rate, which can make it easy to gain weight and increase the possibility of diabetes. 

People are so much more likely to have cardiovascular disease without proper sleep. The onset of cardiovascular disease affects your heart and puts you at risk for heart disease, stroke, or heart attack.

How Can a Doctor Help?

When you visit Dr. McConnell for help with sleep disorders in Bradenton, FL, he will start by getting to the source of your sleep issue. Your doctor will check to see if there are underlying nervous system disorders, anxiety, sinus issues, or a need for oral appliances like night guards. He will ask about your sleeping environment, as a noisy environment can make it hard to fall asleep or to stay asleep long enough to reach and naturally come out of your REM state. He may advise relaxation techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises, reducing stress, or sleeping in another part of your home. Eating habits can also affect sleep, especially if you're eating too late at night. 

Dr. McConnell takes pride in helping with sleep disorders in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL. A consultation at Florida Sleep Specialists may be the first step in improving your quality of life by getting good sleep again. Call the Bradenton, FL, office at (941) 792-8383 and the Sarasota, FL, office at (941) 827-0701 for more information.