Why getting enough sleep is important to me
Lack of sleep increases my susceptibility to injuries
The first of my four alarms sounds at 6 a.m. Groggy, I roll over to turn it off, knowing I have 15 minutes until the next one goes off. I am a night owl and often let time slip away, crawling into bed after midnight. The next morning, I pay a steep price for it.
We know that everyone needs sleep for physical and mental health, but why is it vital for people like me who have bleeding disorders? I find that I need to be even more diligent about it due to my hemophilia A.
When I’m not struggling with illness, I’m pretty physically active. I dance for two hours a day, ride my recumbent bike for an hour, or go hiking with friends. About a year ago, I even tried flying trapeze and had a fantastic time!
I also consider myself a bit of a klutz, and I trip over my own feet far too often for no apparent reason. My friends in school even nicknamed me “Wonder Klutz.” Unfortunately, this clumsiness worsens when I don’t get enough sleep.
Lost sleep, injuries, and mental health
My ability to judge my body in relation to my space and surroundings is often limited, particularly on days when I’m tired. This can sometimes be dangerous. I’ve bumped my head on counters, cabinets, and shelves far too many times throughout my life. It’s normal for me to experience multiple so-called minor concussions every year. I never intend for these accidents to happen. They occur when I’m physically or emotionally drained, or both.
Lack of sleep increases my susceptibility to injuries, which in turn magnifies my chances of experiencing bleeds due to my hemophilia. Personal experience has shown me that I’m more likely to have bleeding episodes during those vulnerable moments of exhaustion.
In addition to taking a physical toll, my mood is significantly affected by sleep deprivation. Sometimes, when my alarm goes off, I feel like crying, a feeling that never arises on mornings when I am well rested. For me, adequate sleep helps me tackle the day more effectively. I can function much better, regulate my emotions more effectively, and stay more organized.
My coping strategies are also stronger when I’ve slept well, and I remember them more easily. A night of good rest helps me recall the tools I can use when life gets overwhelming, such as breathing techniques, journaling, or dancing. I’ve found that I do best with at least seven hours of sleep, and I function more efficiently with nine hours. Unfortunately, I usually average only about five hours.
One of my goals this year is to increase my commitment to obtaining enough sleep. I know that my physical and mental health would greatly benefit from it.
How does lack of sleep affect you and your bleeding disorder? Please share in the comments below.
Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.
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