What Causes Restless Sleep?

There are many factors that can contribute to restless sleep, from consuming too much caffeine or sugar before bed, to more serious causes such as chronic pain. Stress can also play a factor in quality of sleep as the high levels of cortisol characteristic of stress can cause disturbances, both physical and mental, that negatively impact sleep quality. Furthermore, there are a number of sleep disorders that can cause restless sleep, which may include:

– Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) — REM behavior disorder causes people to act out their dreams, which can result in sitting up in bed, wildly flailing arms or legs, or even walking around the house while asleep.

– Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) — RLS is described as an uncomfortable sensation or discomfort in the legs resulting in an irresistible urge to move them, which may be the cause of restless sleep. This can occur multiple times, and most commonly happens when relaxing in bed and trying to fall asleep.

– Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — Some of the major signs of obstructive sleep apnea include loud snoring, trouble breathing at night, and frequent gasps throughout the night, which can cause restless nights since it prevents people from getting into a deep sleep. People with sleep apnea may also wake up with a headache or sore throat (caused by the vibrations in the throat) and feel drowsy throughout the day (due to the awakenings throughout the night).

Restless sleep can cause a wide range of symptoms for both the person trying to sleep and the person observing the restless sleeper. Restless sleep may involve the following issues:

– Tossing and turning to get comfortable
– The feeling of being only half-asleep
– Constant stirring due to an overactive mind
– Frustration with the inability to sleep soundly
– Inability to fall back asleep quickly

In addition, the main sign or symptom of restless sleep is often found the next day, when it may cause feelings of tiredness, sluggishness, or mental impairment. If restless sleep happens regularly, these issues may become increasingly problematic and even dangerous, especially if drowsiness occurs while driving or operating heavy machinery.

Yes, anxiety can cause restless sleep. One characteristic of anxiety is that it causes people to overthink; when this occurs before bed or when trying to fall asleep, it can be distracting and lead to sleep problems, including restless sleep.

There are a number of effective ways that restlessness can be prevented while sleeping, which may include:

– Create a comfortable bedroom
– Practice relaxation techniques
– Turn off electronics
– Stay active during the day
– Follow a consistent sleep schedule
– Eat a balanced diet

If you or someone you love is experiencing restless sleep, the sleep team at Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders can help. Call us today to book an appointment with our restless sleep treatment specialist; we serve patients from all across the United States and have clinics in Bloomington IL, Peoria – Dunlap IL, Mishawaka IN, Kansas City MO, El Paso TX, and Wausau WI. We look forward to serving you!