• Restless sleep

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    Restless sleep can be influenced by several factors and understanding the architecture of sleep can provide insights into why disturbances occur. Sleep is divided into two main types: non-REM and REM sleep. Non-REM sleep consists of light and deep stages, while REM sleep is associated with dreaming. The cycling of these stages occurs about every 90 minutes, with a shift from more deep sleep in the first half to more REM sleep in the second half of the night 1.

    Sleep disturbances, like REM sleep behavioral disorder, may increase as we age, particularly in men. This disorder leads to acting out dreams due to a degradation of the mechanisms that paralyze the body during REM sleep, which can be quite disruptive 2.

    Furthermore, poor quality or insufficient sleep can significantly affect hormonal balance and lead to disruptions in various biological processes, including the menstrual cycle, reproductive hormone levels, and interest in sexual intimacy. Such disruptions often result from insufficient or poor-quality sleep, which can affect overall health and relationships 3.

    To mitigate restless sleep, maintaining good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, is essential. It is also important to ensure a consistent sleep schedule to allow for adequate non-REM and REM sleep cycles, which are crucial for brain function and emotional health 4. If you frequently experience restless sleep, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and potential investigations into specific sleep disorders.

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