Sleep is something everyone needs, but many people find difficult to get. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 40 million Americans experience chronic, long-term sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome or narcolepsy and an additional 20 million experience occasional sleeping problems.
Sleep deprivation interferes with daily life including productivity, driving and social activities. There are many treatment options for sleep disorders, and sometimes simply making small lifestyle changes can help you get a better night's sleep.
Your body has an internal clock or circadian rhythm that naturally tells it when to wake up and go to sleep by releasing hormones and changing your body temperature. Often times these natural rhythms get off track causing difficulties sleeping.
During sleep, your body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure lower to conserve energy, the brain refreshes by removing waste and your body works to rebuild parts that have been stressed during the day. Lack of sleep is associated with many different disorders. Not getting the proper amount of sleep does not allow your body to rejuvenate.
Most people who have difficulty sleeping can make lifestyle changes and see improvements in their quality of sleep. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Exercise daily and avoid alcohol or caffeine before bedtime. If you can, try not to eat a large meal two-three hours before bedtime. Make sure that you have a relaxing bedtime routine and that you only use your bed for sleeping.
Research has recently shown that use of electronic devices immediately before bed can disrupt your circadian rhythms. Cell phones and laptops emit blue light that tells your body it is time to wake up. It is recommended that you stop using electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
If lifestyle changes do not help you sleep better you may need to see a doctor and talk about treatment options. There are medicines health providers can prescribe to help you sleep as well as therapy. Your provider might even suggest you do a sleep study.
Talk to your primary care or family provider today if you are having difficulty sleeping. If you need assistance finding a provider, visit SSRH.net.
Siloam Springs Regional Hospital's Sleep Center is located at 1675 W. Jefferson St., Suite E., in Siloam Springs. To contact the Sleep Center, call (479) 549-2578.
General News on 11/11/2015