Chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, HIV/AIDS etc are associated with sleep disorders. These diseases result in pain or discomfort which cause the patient to wake up during the night. Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease can result in restlessness and sleep deprivation. People who have chronic diseases cannot sleep well at night and are therefore sleepy during the day time.

If your chronic illness is causing you pain, discuss it with your doctor. He may be able to prescribe something to ease the pain. Similarly, if your medications keep you awake at night, discuss the fact with your doctor. There may be alternative substitutes which do not interfere with sleep. People with chronic illnesses need to adhere to good sleep hygiene so that they get sufficient rest. Sleep in a dark room in a quiet area.

Make sure the temperature in the room is comfortable. Do not take naps during the day time and avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine before bedtime. Sometimes doctors may prescribe medications which induce sleep like antihistamines, benzodiazepines or antidepressants. Non drug treatments like relaxation techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy etc can also help people with chronic illness to get a good night’s sleep.