How much sleep do adults need?

Most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep per night for optimal health. However, individual needs vary, and the quality of sleep is just as important as the quantity.

Can poor sleep affect your health?

Yes, chronic sleep deprivation is linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, weakened immunity, and mental health disorders. Adequate sleep is essential for overall health.

Are sleeping pills safe for long-term use?

Most sleeping pills are intended for short-term use due to risks of dependency, tolerance, and side effects. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is recommended as the first-line long-term treatment.

NeurologicalICD-10: G4750-70 million US adults have a sleep disorder; insomnia affects about 30% of adults

Sleep Disorders

Also known as: Insomnia, Dyssomnias, Parasomnias

Sleep disorders are conditions that impair the ability to get adequate, restful sleep on a regular basis. Common types include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy. Chronic sleep disruption can significantly impact physical health, mental well-being, and daily functioning, but most sleep disorders are treatable.

Symptoms

Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

Excessive daytime sleepiness

Irregular breathing during sleep

Unusual movements or behaviors during sleep

Irritability and mood changes

Difficulty concentrating and memory problems

Unrefreshing sleep despite adequate time in bed

Falling asleep at inappropriate times

Causes

Stress, anxiety, or depression
Medical conditions such as chronic pain, asthma, or heart failure
Medications that interfere with sleep
Poor sleep habits and environment
Circadian rhythm disruptions from shift work or jet lag
Neurological conditions affecting sleep regulation

Risk Factors

Irregular work schedules or shift work
Mental health conditions
Chronic medical conditions
Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption
Age, with sleep patterns changing over the lifespan
Obesity

Diagnosis

Sleep history and sleep diary analysis
Polysomnography (overnight sleep study)
Multiple sleep latency test for excessive daytime sleepiness
Actigraphy to monitor sleep-wake patterns
Questionnaires such as Epworth Sleepiness Scale and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index

Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)
Sleep hygiene improvements including consistent schedules and optimal environment
Prescription medications for short-term use
CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea
Light therapy for circadian rhythm disorders
Treatment of underlying medical or psychiatric conditions

Prevention

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
Creating a dark, quiet, and cool sleeping environment
Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and screen time before bed
Regular physical exercise during the day
Managing stress with relaxation techniques

When to See a Doctor

Chronic difficulty sleeping that affects daily functioning
Excessive daytime drowsiness despite adequate sleep time
Unusual behaviors during sleep such as sleepwalking
Partner reporting pauses in breathing during sleep

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Sleep Apnea

Respiratory

Restless Legs Syndrome

Neurological

Narcolepsy

Neurological

Depression

Mental Health

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