Poor quality sleep or not enough sleep may increase the perception of pain. A study from Harvard Medical School looked at health care workers and their length and quality of sleep. Sleep deficient was defined as sleeping less than six hours, feeling tired upon waking or experiencing insomnia (trouble falling asleep or waking up in the middle of the night). Almost 60% of the people participating in the study were described as “sleep deficient”.

Questions about pain included asking if there had been pain in any body part in the last 3 months, moderate or more work interference because of this pain and whether there were limitations on daily activities because of pain. The sleep deprived group reported more instances of pain and were much more likely to describe the pain as limiting their work or daily living functions. The conclusion of the study was that not enough sleep was associated with perceived pain and the limitations that go along with that pain both in work life and every day functioning.

Sleep problems affect most people at one time or another. Sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea are more than just a poor nights sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition with far reaching effects on a patients overall health. If you snore loudly, wake in the morning feeling unrested and experience excessive daytime sleepiness you may suffer from a sleep disorder.

Please contact our Columbus area office at 614-476-6696 today to schedule a consultation to learn more about sleep disorders and treatment options available to you.