Bedtime bickering takes away 10 nights of sleep a year

Bickering couples lose up to 90 minutes a week of what could have been peaceful sleep time by arguing between the sheets, according to new research. Experts have said that it is a serious issue that needs to be addressed, and ignoring the problem may result in regular bursts of poor quality of sleep, increased stress levels and loss of immunity.The research by Travelodge revealed that night-time rows flare up around three times a week and over a year could add up to as much as 10 lost eight-hour nights of rest, the Daily Express reported. Fidgeting, snoring and passing wind are just three of the irritations guaranteed to get tempers frayed under the covers, according to the research. The survey of 2,000 couples found people from Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow are the nation's top bedtime bickerers, followed by couples in Liverpool, London and Cardiff. The biggest cause for discontent is fidgeting, with a fifth of those polled saying their partner regularly interrupts their sleep with restlessness and twitchy movements. More than 15 per cent said snoring sets their blood pressure rising, while 15 per cent said conflicting body temperatures keep them awake. "Our research has highlighted that bedtime bickering amongst couples is a growing concern across the UK. In some areas couples are losing at least a week's worth of sleep a year which is not good news," Travelodge spokesman Shakila Ahmed said. Relationship psychologist Corinne Sweet said bickering in the bedroom could lead to increased stress and weaken the immune system. She advises bickering couples to have an open and honest discussion with their partner about their annoying sleeping habits and find a workable solution. From ANI