As we grow and mature, our bodies’ needs change with respect to how much we eat, drink, and sleep. Just as overeating causes health issues, oversleeping creates its own set of problems.
Most adults from 18 to 64 years of age typically require between 7 and 9 hours of sleep every night, although 6 to 11 hours is considered acceptable. There are exceptions to this rule, as some healthy people do need 10 to 12 hours of sleep at night.
But what about oversleeping? Can oversleeping negatively affect a person’s health?
Studies have shown that when people get too much sleep on a regular basis, they can suffer from the same negative effects of feeling overtired. Let’s explore why this happens.
Problems from Oversleeping
Sleeping too much can lead to a host of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and even an increased risk of premature death due to illness. Oversleeping is strongly tied to depression, anxiety, low energy, and memory problems.
The effects of oversleeping can also place a person at greater risk of developing persistent headaches and migraines. An increase in back or neck pain can be caused by lying in bed for unnaturally long periods of time.
What Are Proper Sleep Habits?
Observing a regular sleep routine allows the brain to release chemicals that help regulate the processes of the body. This is sometimes referred to as “sleep hygiene,” and it figures prominently in cognitive behavioral therapy – the cornerstone of fighting insomnia.
Below are some tips to help establish healthy sleep habits:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends and vacations.
- Set a bedtime that allows you to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night.
- If you are ever unable to fall asleep within about 20 minutes after going to bed, get up and take a break, and try again until the body can fall asleep. Don’t lie in bed tossing and turning.
- Do not keep a clock in the bedroom.
- Remove external stimuli from the bedroom. Turn off all lights, and maintain a quiet, dark atmosphere.
- Avoid consuming caffeine, alcohol, or eating meals before bedtime. Reduce fluid intake in order to minimize the chance of waking up to use the restroom.
- Exercise regularly. Getting proper amounts of exercise will combat the effects of too much sleep.
Who Can Help Me Sleep Better?
Typically, a patient who has sleep issues may need to see a number of health care professionals like a general practitioner, mental health counselor, psychiatrist, and possibly more. That changes at Rockville Concierge Doctors.
One of the biggest advantages of becoming a patient at Rockville Concierge Doctors is the ability to develop a close relationship with your physician and to be treated like a VIP – where the time spent at the doctor’s office is with the doctor, not sitting in the lobby.
To schedule a complimentary consultation, contact us at (301) 545-1811 today or fill out our online form to request a meet-and-greet. Let us tell you more about what concierge medicine offers and how it can benefit you for a lifetime of good health.
