How can poor sleep contribute to a decreased quality of life?

Research supports that sleep problems contribute to cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke can directly affect your quality of life. However, the ways in which poor sleep may result in a decreased quality of life are subtler:

• You may cut back on activities you enjoy for lack of energy.
• Falling asleep at inappropriate times may be embarrassing in public.
• Having a different sleep schedule than your spouse may even cause marital problems.

Speak with you doctor about any sleep problems to identify causes and appropriate treatments. Resolving sleep problems may have important health benefits and increase day-to-day quality of life.