Sleep Well
Sleep difficulties are very common, can cause problems with daytime functioning, and may contribute to many other medical conditions. There is help available for the two most common sleep issues-insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea.
Maintaining Healthy Sleep
Getting high quality sleep is key for good health. Sleeping well is just as important as exercise and eating wisely. If you are already getting quality sleep, here are some tips to help you continue sleeping well.
- Allow yourself enough time to sleep at night
- Keep a regular sleep schedule every day
- Allow time to unwind before bed
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine before bedtime
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid napping
- Keep the bedroom quiet, dark and comfortable
- Avoid using electronic devices in the bedroom (TV, cell phones, tablets, computers). White noise from fans or sound machines is fine.
- Use the bed only for sleep and intimacy
- Identify stressors & continue to manage stress
The two most common sleep disorders are: Insomnia Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Disorder.
Insomnia symptoms include difficulty with:
- Falling asleep
- Staying asleep
- Waking too early
Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder caused by blocking of the airway during sleep. Symptoms can include:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Loud snoring
- Observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
There are effective treatments for both insomnia and sleep apnea.
Source: National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
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