A survey once found that about 45 percent of Americans say a lack of sleep has affected them in the last week. If you have been plagued by insomnia, unable to stay asleep, or feeling tired all day long, you aren’t alone. Even though it is common, it is important to address it quickly.

A lack of sleep doesn’t just make you feel tired. It actually affects the way that your body and mind work, both together and independently. Studies have shown that a fatigued driver awake just 24 hours is at least as dangerous as a driver impaired by alcohol or drugs. Every part of your body, every system, is affected by your lack of sleep.

The first step in getting a good night’s sleep is figuring out why you are having problems. Your doctor will ask you a series of questions to determine the type of sleep problems you are having. Are you having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling as though you haven’t slept? Based on those answers, they may run tests and screenings to rule out potential causes. This usually includes a sleep study and blood lab work.

Most of the potential causes of a lack of good sleep are easily addressed once discovered. Your doctor will work to come to a resolution quickly. Studies are finding that sleep aids can cause significant medical conditions to appear or worsen, so doctors are more inclined to treat the core issue rather than prescribe them.

If you have been having problems sleeping, don’t wait until it starts affecting your work and home life. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your appointment.