Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Having Trouble Sleeping?

If you’re having trouble sleeping, you’re not alone. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 40 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders. Some of the more common sleep problems include: sleep apnea (stops breathing during sleep), insomnia (inability to fall asleep), narcolepsy (falling asleep during waking hours), hypersomnia (causes excessive sleepiness) and Restless Legs Syndrome (causes a crawling or tingling pain while trying to fall asleep).

If you suffer from any of these problems, see your physician right away. These conditions are all controllable.

Here are some hygiene tips that may help you get a better night’s sleep.

· Maintain a regular sleep/wake schedule.
· Avoid caffeine, especially 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.
· Avoid nicotine, especially near bedtime.
· Avoid alcohol before sleep.
· Exercise regularly; avoid vigorous exercise within 3 to 4 hours of sleep.
· Avoid heavy meals before bedtime.