Television host Carson Daly is the latest celebrity to attempt something called sleep divorce. put down and sleep.
Daly called the move “the best thing” for his marriage on the Today Show’s summer episode.
“We both slept well apart, sure,” he said.
The concept is worth considering for couples who suffer from snoring, restlessness, different sleep schedules, or other nighttime problems, said a pulmonologist at OSF Healthcare in Alton. Dr. Nadeem Ahmed said.
But let’s make one thing clear.
“I hate the term ‘sleep divorce’ because it tends to blame others. It’s not a good word. It brings anxiety,” says Ahmed.
“I like using the ‘Sleep Alliance.’ We want to make sure that it doesn’t affect anyone,” he says.
Ahmed says he encounters sleep problems such as snoring while practicing “almost every day” and many people are ashamed of it.
Every case is different. Ahmed says couples should first discuss their sleep problems and try to find a solution. You can try sleeping in the same bed.
If necessary, partners should consult a respiratory specialist or psychologist.
“A lot of psychologists do what doctors do. It’s just a person’s comfort level,” Ahmed explains. “Some people don’t want to see a doctor for their sleep problems. They’d rather talk to a psychologist.”
“The idea is to talk to some kind of expert,” he says.
Ahmed adds that sleeping separately should be a short-term solution.
“Tell your bed partner that this is a problem and needs to be addressed. It can affect your work, like having to drive,” says Ahmed.
Ahmed says a major cause of restlessness leading to the sleep alliance debate is sleep apnea, the cessation of breathing during sleep. This can lead to loud snoring and movement in bed, as well as rattling and sleeplessness the next day.
According to Ahmed, there are two types of sleep apnea: obstructive and central. Obstructive sleep apnea is a product of obesity. Central sleep apnea is associated with neurological disorders such as stroke.
“[Sleep apnea] Our brains are hardwired to make us go at certain times, so it’s not fatal.
However, if this condition is left untreated, various problems such as hypertension, arrhythmia, diabetes, dementia, headaches, and frequent urination may occur.
Diagnosing sleep apnea involves a home or hospital sleep study.
Treatment options include a mask and machine combination known as CPAP or BiPAP, a mouth guard, or a small device implanted inside the body during an outpatient procedure. All of these options are aimed at helping you breathe normally and sleep peacefully.
“Additionally, lifestyle changes should be emphasized to eliminate sleep apnea,” adds Ahmed. “Eat healthy. Lose weight. Exercise.”
Over-the-counter options for better sleep include melatonin, eye masks, earplugs, thick window curtains, plush mattresses and sheets, and white noise devices like smart speakers. , don’t eat or drink anything except water, advises Ahmed.
