Research Writing: The Sleeping Disorders

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DISEASES AND HOW IT CAN BE PREVENTED

A Research Paper Presented to

The English Resource Center

School of Multimedia Arts

Asia Pacific College

Magallanes, Makati City

In Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements for the Course

ERESWRT – Research Writing

Kristine Joi Corpuz-Gonzales

April 2014

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

A. Background of the Study

It is essential for us all to have a high-quality sleep. If you are maintaining a normal routine and having enough sleep, then your body will wake up obviously on time. Sleep is a necessary process to sustain our lives; a required activity, not an option. It is a behavioral state that is a natural part of every individual’s life. It is the physical and mental resting state in which a person becomes moderately inactive and unaware in the environment. Sleep is an essential life process. It is as important to our well-being as the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe.

From an entry entitled "Why Is Sleep Important?" by National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute stated that "Sleep plays a vital role in good health and well-being throughout your life. Getting enough quality sleep at the right times can help protect your mental health, physical health, quality of life, and safety." (http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/sdd/why.html)

The need for sufficient, sound sleep has worldwide importance. As industries around the world are increasingly implementing shift work schedules, millions of people are changing their sleeping habits. In addition, due to the sleep disorders as well as, to fast-paced lives, many people go without adequate sleep. These habits can have serious consequences. Sleep disorders also cause problems in the workplace that effect society as a whole. These are a relatively silent epidemic affecting countless people of all ages around the world. Men, women, and children no group is spared. Yes, sleep disorders can be deadly. In fact, numerous accidents and disasters have occurred as a result of impaired mental performance due to sleepiness related to sleep deprivation or sleep disorders.

In the article “Sleep health centre: Lack of sleep can be hazardous to your health” by Sophie Ramsey mentioned “Not getting enough sleep may have far-reaching effects on the body. A new review of studies shows that regular sleep loss may increase the chance of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure, among other health problems.’’ (http://www.webmd.boots.com/sleep-disorders/news/20140325/lack-of-sleep-hazardous-health)

Throughout the years there is an alarming lack of awareness about sleep in the medical community and the general public. We encountered the disorders; medical conditions are often related to other diseases and conditions. It is not normal for a person to be sleepy at times when he or she expects to be awake. We all know that lifestyle factors and undiagnosed or untreated syndromes can cause problem sleepiness, and having problem sleepiness can be deadly.

The researcher observes that sleep disorders face people every day. They can ruin your life and take away your freedoms. They are one of the most common diseases. They can shoot you down into a depression if you don’t take them very serious and don’t get help as soon as possible. They can even affect your success and make your day miserable if you have an important thing and you don't get enough sleep. You can die from these things if you don’t seek medical attention soon enough. They can tear down your body slow, one day at a time if you don’t sleep enough, and get enough rest.

The information in this paper will help the readers fully understand and acknowledge the complexities of sleeping disorders in life. In addition, in order to understand sleep disorder, it is necessary to understand something about sleep itself and the wide range of normal variations in the way people sleep.

The focus/purpose of this research is to explain the differences between disorder and disease, and how sleeping disorder can be prevented.

B. Statement of the Problem

This study aims to answer the question.

1. How the sleeping disorders can be prevented?

C. Significance of the Study

Children and Families. The information will shows that all children suffer from some type of sleeping problem, and the causes range from poor sleep habits, behavioral problems, to underlying medical conditions.

Parents and Educators. In this study it is important for both parents and educators to understand how sleep works and how disruptions in normal sleep patterns can affect children and teenagers. Children who get enough sleep are more likely to function better and are less prone to behavioral problems and moodiness. That is why it is important for parents to start early and help their children develop good sleep habits.

Future Researchers. This paper would be useful to future researcher in making similar or related to their study. This may use as their additional reference or source to their own research.

D. Scope and Delimitation

This study focuses on the differences between disorder and disease and how it can be prevented. Because sleeping disorders can occur at any age and can affect your child's ability to get the sleep needed for essential growth, development and overall health. 

E. Materials and Method

The collected data in this paper are read and gathered through the help of online books, and articles related to the topic. The articles are usually phrases provided by the author, or personal idea referring to their personal experiences.

The data gather by the researcher will be analyzed and presented through the method of identifying and listing the differences of a disease from disorder and how it was related to sleeping.

F. Definition of Terms

1. Disease. Incorrectly functioning organ, part, structure, or system of the body, produces specific signs or symptoms or that affects a specific location and is not simply a direct result of physical injury. (https://www.google.com.ph/?gfe_rd=cr&ei=TmdCU9fWBueK8QeuwoG4Bg#q=what+is+the+meaning+of+disease)

2. Disorder. A condition characterized by functional impairment without structural change while certain disorders or categories of disorders might be accompanied by specific signs and symptoms.

3. Sleep. A condition of body and mind such as that which typically recurs for several hours every night, in which the nervous system is relatively inactive, the eyes closed, the postural muscles relaxed, and consciousness practically suspended.

Chapter 2

DISCUSSION

What are the differences between sleeping disorders and diseases, and how it can be prevented?

I. Differences between Disorders and Diseases

The terms “disease” and “disorder” are often used interchangeably. These are two words that are often confused when it comes to their meanings and connotations. Actually, there is some difference between the two words. These two words should not be interchanged. They indeed have different meanings.

For more detail in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1962: "On the Distinction Between Disease and Disorder” by Ashley Montagu, Ph.D., Princeton, N.J. mentioned that “The concepts and the terms "disease" and "disorder” have long been used synonymously and interchangeably both in medicine and in common parlance. It seems that it would constitute a contribution to greater clarity of thought and practice was these two concepts recognized for what they are, as referring to 2 quite different colligations of conditions.” (http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=333028)

Disease is an acquired morbid change in any tissue or tissue of an organism, or in an organism as a whole, of specific microorganism with characteristic symptoms. Disorder is a disturbance of structure or function or both due to a genetic failure in development or as the result of factors, such as certain chemical substances, injury, or disease. It may be inborn or acquired. The difference between the concepts of disease and that of disorder implied in these definitions lies in the fact that disease is conceived as being limited to malfunctioning of the organism initiated and maintained by an infectious process. A disorder mayor may not be initiated by an infectious process, but, however initiated; the malfunctioning is not maintained by an infectious process. A disorder may be the result of an infectious process, remaining long after the infection has ceased. A disorder may also be the result of a noninfectious process, such as an inborn error of metabolism due to some enzymatic deficiency, or to a chromosomal abnormality. In this class of conditions the disorder' is maintained by a noninfectious derangement of chemical conditions.

The researcher added that a disease, being something infectious, is something that can be cured while a disorder cannot be cured. We might be able to minimize the negative consequences of a disorder but the condition itself will always remain. The interchangeable use of disease and disorder is not only inaccurate but harmful.

II. Definition of Sleeping Disorders

Sleeping Disorders when define as a term, according to Dictionary by Farlex is “Sleep disorders are a group of syndromes characterized by disturbance in the patient's amount of sleep, quality or timing of sleep, or in behaviors or physiological conditions associated with sleep.” Yet, it is a change in sleeping patterns or habits. A sleep disorder can affect your overall health, safety and quality of life.

More detailed information by Kendra Cherry “Sleeping Disorders” restated that according to the American Psychiatric Association wherein sleeping disorders especially with elderly people could be really frustrating. These cause a stressful life. One can’t have enough rest due to this kind of illness. Treating sleeping disorders can be hard sometimes but trying several options helps a lot. The Association stated that “sleep disorders are major disturbances of normal sleep patterns that lead to distress and disrupt functioning during the day. Not only are sleep disorders extremely common, affecting virtually everyone at some point in their lives, but they can also lead to serious stress and other health consequences.” (http://psychology.about.com/od/statesofconsciousness/p/sleep_disorders.htm)

Sleep disorders can be generalized as any disorder that affects, disrupts, or involves sleep. A broad range of illnesses arising from many causes, including, dysfunctional sleep mechanisms, abnormalities in physiological functions during sleep, abnormalities of the biological clock, and sleep disturbances that are induced by factors extrinsic to the sleep process.

A meaning by sleep disorders according to “The Meaning of Sleep Disturbances” by Sleeping Disorders Guide stated that “Sleep disturbances can occur for many reasons, from outer or inner influences. Among the causes originating on the outside are environmental disturbances such as noise, light, room temperature, a bad mattress, improper bed linens, and the like.” (http://www.sleepdisordersguide.com/sleep-disturbances.html)

III. How sleeping disorders can be prevented

There are a wide variety of sleep disorders and there are many things we can do regarding our sleep habits as well as our general lifestyle habits that will prevent sleep disorders.

A. The amount of sleep each person needs depends on many factors, including age. Eventually, our body will demand that the debt be repaid. We don't seem to adapt to getting less sleep than we need; while we may get used to a sleep-depriving schedule, our judgment, reaction time, and other functions are still impaired.  Set a schedule and keep a regular sleep schedule. Try to go to sleep at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning.

The HELPGUIDE.org in their article org “How to Sleep Better: Tips for Getting a Good Night’s Sleep” mentioned that “Getting in sync with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle—your circadian rhythm—is one of the most important strategies for achieving good sleep. If you keep a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and getting up at the same time each day, you will feel much more refreshed and energized than if you sleep the same number of hours at different times. This holds true even if you alter your sleep schedule by only an hour or two. Consistency is vitally important.“ (http://www.sleepdisordersguide.com/sleep-disturbances.html)    

B. Exercise also encourages sleep because it causes one's body temperature to rise and then fall by equal amount a few hours later. This drop in your body temperature makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Take regular exercise but nothing too vigorous just before bedtime.

Information given by “Tips for A Good Night's Sleep” by Michael Bengston, M.D. on 30 Mar 2005 shared that “Try to exercise 20 to 30 minutes a day. Daily exercise often helps people sleep, although a workout soon before bedtime may interfere with sleep. For maximum benefit, try to get your exercise about 5 to 6 hours before going to bed. Do not exercise within two hours of bedtime.” (http://psychcentral.com/disorders/sleep/tips.html)

C. Some people are more sensitive to caffeine and experience adverse reactions, including increased anxiety, nervousness, and sleep problems. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. Caffeine and nicotine are stimulants and can keep you from falling asleep. Alcohol can cause waking in the night and interferes with sleep quality.

According to the article “Twelve Simple Tips to Improve Your Sleep” by Healthy Sleep stated that “As any coffee lover knows, caffeine is a stimulant that can keep you awake. So avoid caffeine (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, cola, and some pain relievers) for four to six hours before bedtime. Although alcohol may help bring on sleep, after a few hours it acts as a stimulant, increasing the number of awakenings and generally decreasing the quality of sleep later in the night. It is therefore best to limit alcohol consumption to one to two drinks per day, or less, and to avoid drinking within three hours of bedtime.” (http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/getting/overcoming/tips)

Chapter 3

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary

This paper attempted to determine the differences between sleeping disorders and diseases and how it can be prevented.

The research design used in this study is the descriptive research method wherein data from documents, articles and books found in the internet online were used to answer the research question posed. The research findings are the following:

1. Most people think that disorder is a disease because it is a condition that affects the body and the mind.

2. Other people think disorder and diseases is something that can occur to anyone.

3. What distinguishes disease, and disorder from one another would seem to be their relative emphases on functional change, structural change, presence of signs and symptom

Conclusion

Base on the findings of this study, the following conclusions are drawn.

1. Sleep is absolutely essential to normal, healthy functions.

2. The amount of sleep that a person needs to function in a normal manner depends on several factors, including age.

3. Sleep disorders are common and have a limited range of symptoms.

4. Ignoring sleep disorders can lead to poor health, poor mood, and lethargy, and may negatively impact motivation, relationships, and job performance. 5. The direct effects of sleep disorders and with other substantial public health problems such obesity, diabetes, stroke and depression have a profound economic and social impacts.

Recommendations

After drawing the conclusions of the study, the researcher hereby make the following suggestions/recommendations:

1. Understand that external and internal factors affect sleep and sleep patterns

2. Recognize that many different sleep disorders exist, that nearly everyone, at some time, experiences difficulty sleeping,

3. Consult doctors to identify the symptoms related to the illness, before taking actions.

4. Treating sleeping disorders can be hard sometimes but trying several options helps a lot.

References:

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute "Why Is Sleep Important?" retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/sdd/why.html

Sophie Ramsey “Sleep health centre: Lack of sleep can be hazardous to your health” retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://www.webmd.boots.com/sleep-disorders/news/20140325/lack-of-sleep-hazardous-health

Ashley Montagu, Ph.D., Princeton, N.J., Journal of the American Medical Association in 1962: "On the Distinction Between Disease and Disorder” retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=333028

Kendra Cherry “Sleeping Disorders” retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://psychology.about.com/od/statesofconsciousness/p/sleep_disorders.htm

Sleeping Disorders Guide “The Meaning of Sleep Disturbances” retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://www.sleepdisordersguide.com/sleep-disturbances.html

HELPGUIDE.org “How to Sleep Better: Tips for Getting a Good Night’s Sleep” retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_tips.htm

Michael Bengston, M.D. “Tips for A Good Night's Sleep” on 30 Mar 2005 retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://psychcentral.com/disorders/sleep/tips.html

Healthy Sleep “Twelve Simple Tips to Improve Your Sleep” retrieved April 21, 2014 from http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/getting/overcoming/tips