National Sleep Awareness Week, March 24-April
4
by Jeanne Keiler, Director of Neurophysiology
| This year, Marquette General Hospital's Sleep Lab is a sponsor of
the National Sleep Foundation's Sleep Awareness Week, March 29 - April 4.
The purpose of National Sleep Awareness Week is to make everyone aware that sleep is as important to a healthy lifestyle as diet and exercise. The consequences of sleep deprivation are staggering. The National Sleep Foundation estimates that "drowsy driving claims 1,500 lives and accounts for at least 100,000 auto crashes in the U.S. every year." The costs to our society reach millions of dollars in accidents and lost or reduced productivity. Poor health, impaired performance and reduced quality of life are the consequences of untreated sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy and insomnia. Even if you don't have a sleep disorder the following may help you make the most of your nights:
|
1. Keep a regular schedule. Go to bed and get up about the same time each morning. 2. Sleep only as much as you need to feel rested. 3. Your sleeping room should be dark, quiet, comfortable, and safe. 4. Don't use your bedroom for an office. Leave your troubles and worries in another room. 5. Avoid drinking beverages that contain caffeine in the late afternoon or evening. |
6. Don't use alcohol as a sedative. It will wake
you in the middle of the night.
7. Get plenty of exercise, but not within 2 hours of bedtime. 8. Don't go to bed hungry, but don't eat too heavily before sleep. 9. Develop your own nightly ritual such as a bath or shower, reading, listening to music, or just relaxing. 10. If you can't sleep, get out of bed and return only when you feel sleepy. Most of all, it is important to remember that sleep needs are individual and change somewhat throughout or lives. If you have a sleep problem that lasts 3 or more weeks, see your doctor for help.
|
For more information on sleep disorders, sleep hygiene, and coping with shift work, please contact Marquette General Hospital's Sleep Lab at 1-800-562-9753 extension 3565 or 906-225-3565.
 |
Inside this Issue
Nutrition talk..............2 |