Tag Archive for: Sleep issues

Drowsy Driving is Impaired Driving – Drowsy Driving Prevention Week.

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Drowsy Driving Prevention Week: Prioritize Sleep for Safer Roads

Drowsy driving is impaired driving. Most of us aren’t thinking about drowsy driving like drunk driving. Did you know sleeping only 3-4 hours is like having a few drinks? If you haven’t gotten enough sleep to drive alert, it isn’t safe to be behind the wheel. Changing plans is a responsible choice. Let’s wake up to the risks of drowsy driving, because the decisions we make matter.

As we observe Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, it’s a vital reminder for everyone to prioritize sleep and recognize the dangers of driving while sleep-deprived. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we believe that well-rested drivers contribute to safer roads and fewer accidents.

The Dangers of Drowsy Driving

Did you know that drowsy driving, just like drunk, drugged, and distracted driving, it is a real public health issue, causing thousands of car crashes each year and killing an estimated 6,400 people in the U.S. alone according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports an estimated 100,000 crashes each year are caused primarily by drowsy driving, resulting in more than 71,000 injuries and $12.5 million in damages. Sleep deprivation impairs reaction times, decision-making, and overall awareness, making it crucial to address this issue head-on.

Why Sleep Matters

Getting adequate sleep is essential for maintaining your physical and mental health. Adults typically need 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to function optimally. When we don’t prioritize sleep, our ability to concentrate, react quickly, and make sound judgments diminishes significantly. Here are some tips to ensure you’re well-rested before hitting the road:

  1. Establish a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
  2. Create a Restful Environment: Make your bedroom conducive to sleep by keeping it dark, quiet, and cool. Consider using blackout curtains or white noise machines if needed.
  3. Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and heavy meals in the hours leading up to bedtime. Instead, opt for a light snack if you’re hungry.
  4. Wind Down: Engage in relaxing activities before bed, such as reading or gentle stretching, to signal your body that it’s time to rest.
  5. Listen to Your Body: If you’re feeling tired during the day, take a short nap (20-30 minutes) to recharge, but avoid long naps that can interfere with nighttime sleep.

Tips to Avoid Drowsy Driving When Planning a Trip

When planning a road trip, it’s essential to consider your rest and alertness. Here are some tips to help you avoid drowsy driving:

  1. Plan Your Route Wisely: Choose routes with plenty of rest stops. Schedule breaks every couple of hours to stretch, hydrate, and recharge.
  2. Travel with a Companion: If possible, travel with someone who can share driving duties. This allows you to take turns resting and staying alert.
  3. Avoid Driving During Your Sleepy Hours: Be mindful of the times of day when you’re naturally more tired (often late at night or early morning). Plan your driving schedule around these periods.
  4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep Before Your Trip: Make sure you’re well-rested before embarking on your journey. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep the night before.
  5. Stay Hydrated and Snack Wisely: Drink water and eat light, healthy snacks to maintain your energy levels without the crash that heavy meals can cause.
  6. Be Aware of Signs of Fatigue: Recognize the warning signs of drowsiness, such as frequent yawning, difficulty keeping your eyes open, or drifting from your lane. If you experience these, pull over and take a break.

Driving Alert

If you find yourself feeling drowsy while driving, it’s crucial to pull over safely and rest. The consequences of driving while fatigued can be severe, both for you and others on the road. Encourage your friends and family to prioritize their sleep and make responsible choices when it comes to driving.

Together for Safer Roads

As a community, we can work to reduce the number of drowsy drivers on the road. By spreading awareness about the importance of sleep and its impact on driving safety, we can help prevent countless motor vehicle crashes each year.

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we are committed to helping you achieve your best sleep. If you or someone you know is struggling with sleep issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Together, let’s prioritize sleep and make our roads safer for everyone.

Stay alert, stay safe, and drive well-rested!

For more information about sleep health and tips, visit our website or contact us at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center.

 

Prepare for the Time Change: Tips for Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule This Fall

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Prepare for the Time Change: Tips for Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule This Fall

As the clocks “fall back” this November, many of us will experience a shift in our daily rhythm. While gaining an extra hour of sleep sounds delightful, the time change can disrupt our internal clocks, or circadian rhythms, leading to grogginess, reduced productivity, and even challenges for those with sleep disorders. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand that a smooth transition can help you maintain your well-being as you adjust to the new schedule. Here’s how to prepare for the time change to keep your sleep on track.

1. Gradually Shift Your Schedule

A week before the time change, try adjusting your bedtime and wake-up time by 10-15 minutes each night. This gradual shift allows your body to adapt slowly, minimizing the shock to your system. If you’re a parent, this can also help young children and pets acclimate with minimal disruption.

2. Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

Sleep hygiene refers to creating habits that promote restful sleep. As we approach the time change:

  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol a few hours before bedtime, as they can interfere with deep sleep.
  • Create a calming bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath.
  • Limit screen time before bed, as blue light from screens can interfere with melatonin production, a hormone critical for sleep.

3. Embrace Morning Light

After the time change, expose yourself to natural light as early as possible to help reset your body’s internal clock. Daylight is a powerful cue for our circadian rhythm, signaling to our brains that it’s time to be awake. Open your blinds or, if possible, step outside for some morning sunlight – even a few minutes can make a difference.

4. Stay Active

Regular exercise can help stabilize your sleep patterns and boost your mood, but try to complete your workout at least a few hours before bed. Physical activity in the morning or afternoon can help you feel more alert during the day and prepare your body for a restful night’s sleep.

5. Make Your Bedroom a Sleep Sanctuary

A comfortable, dark, and quiet room encourages deeper, more restorative sleep. Adjust your room temperature to a cool setting (around 65°F is ideal for most people) and consider using blackout curtains to block out any external light. A white noise machine or fan can also help mask sounds that may disrupt sleep.

6. Listen to Your Body

While the goal is to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, it’s also important to listen to your body. If you feel unusually tired after the time change, consider taking a short 15-20 minute nap in the early afternoon. Just be cautious to avoid late-day naps that might make it harder to fall asleep at night.

7. Seek Help if You’re Struggling

For individuals with sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, or delayed sleep phase disorder, adjusting to time changes can be particularly challenging. If you’re finding it difficult to adapt, or if you consistently struggle with sleep issues, Comprehensive Sleep Care Center is here to help. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders to help you achieve your best rest year-round.

Your Sleep Health Is Important While it might seem like a minor change, the fall time shift can have a noticeable impact on our sleep and overall well-being. By following these tips, you can help your body adjust smoothly and make the most of that extra hour! At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we’re committed to helping you enjoy better sleep every season.

For more information on sleep health or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or contact us today. Sweet dreams and happy adjusting!

 

The 5 Leading Causes of Sleepless Nights and How to Combat Them

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The 5 Leading Causes of Sleepless Nights and How to Combat Them

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we know how crucial a good night’s sleep is for your overall well-being. Unfortunately, sleepless nights are all too common for many people. If you’ve ever tossed and turned, staring at the ceiling while the hours tick by, you’re not alone. Sleeplessness can be caused by a variety of factors—some are temporary, while others may need professional attention. Let’s dive into the five leading causes of sleepless nights and how you can address them for a healthier, more restful life.

1. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are two of the most common causes of sleepless nights. When your mind races with worries about work, relationships, or health, it can be nearly impossible to relax enough to fall asleep.

How to Combat It:

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation before bed can help calm your mind and body.
  • Create a Wind-Down Routine: Set aside 30-60 minutes before bed to engage in relaxing activities like reading or listening to calming music.

2. Poor Sleep Environment

Your bedroom environment plays a significant role in the quality of your sleep. Factors like noise, light, and even the temperature of your room can affect how well you sleep.

How to Combat It:

  • Optimize Your Space: Keep your room dark, cool, and quiet. Consider blackout curtains or a white noise machine if you live in a noisy area.
  • Invest in Comfort: Make sure your mattress, pillows, and bedding are comfortable and supportive for your body type and sleep style.

3. Caffeine and Late-Night Eating

The food and drinks you consume, especially close to bedtime, can interfere with your sleep. Caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol are stimulants that can make falling asleep difficult, while heavy meals may lead to discomfort or indigestion.

How to Combat It:

  • Limit Caffeine Intake: Try to avoid caffeine at least 6 hours before bed. This includes coffee, tea, chocolate, and some sodas.
  • Watch Your Meal Timing: Eat your last meal 2-3 hours before bed and opt for lighter fare that won’t leave you feeling too full.

4. Sleep Disorders

Sometimes, the root of sleepless nights is more complex than stress or lifestyle habits. Conditions such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or insomnia can significantly disrupt your sleep patterns.

How to Combat It:

  • Seek Professional Help: If you suspect a sleep disorder is behind your sleepless nights, consult a sleep specialist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a sleep diary to track your sleep patterns, which can help your doctor identify the problem.

5. Inconsistent Sleep Schedule

Irregular sleep patterns—whether due to shift work, traveling across time zones, or inconsistent bedtimes—can throw off your body’s internal clock. When your circadian rhythm is out of sync, falling and staying asleep becomes much harder.

How to Combat It:

  • Stick to a Routine: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
  • Get Some Sun: Exposure to natural light during the day, especially in the morning, helps your body recognize when it’s time to be awake and when it’s time to sleep.

When to Seek Help

While many sleep issues can be addressed with lifestyle changes, ongoing sleep problems may require professional evaluation. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders that affect your quality of life. If you’re experiencing chronic sleeplessness, we’re here to help you get the rest you deserve.

Ready to take the next step toward better sleep? Contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center today to schedule a consultation with our sleep specialists.

About Comprehensive Sleep Care Center

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we are dedicated to helping patients of all ages improve their sleep health. With cutting-edge technology and personalized care, our team of sleep specialists works to diagnose and treat a wide range of sleep disorders. Let us help you find your path to better sleep and better health.

 

 

5 Tips to Beat Insomnia

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Insomnia can be a challenging condition, disrupting your sleep and impacting your overall health and well-being. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and offer these five tips to help you beat insomnia and improve your sleep quality.

  1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Your body thrives on routine. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends, helps regulate your internal clock. This consistency signals to your body when it’s time to sleep and wake up, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

  1. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

A calming pre-sleep routine can signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Consider activities such as:

  • Reading a Book: Choose something light and non-stimulating.
  • Taking a Warm Bath: The drop in body temperature post-bath can help induce sleepiness.
  • Practicing Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can ease your mind and body into a state ready for sleep.

  1. Optimize Your Sleep Environment

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for sleep. Ensure it’s:

  • Cool, Dark, and Quiet: Use blackout curtains, earplugs, or a white noise machine if necessary.
  • Comfortable: Invest in a good mattress and pillows that support your sleep posture.
  • Technology-Free: Keep electronic devices out of the bedroom to avoid the blue light that can interfere with melatonin production.

  1. Be Mindful of Your Diet and Exercise

What you eat and drink, and when you do so, can impact your sleep:

  • Avoid Caffeine and Nicotine: These stimulants can disrupt sleep if consumed too close to bedtime.
  • Limit Alcohol: While it might make you drowsy, alcohol can interfere with the quality of your sleep.
  • Eat Light in the Evening: Heavy meals before bed can cause discomfort and indigestion, making it harder to fall asleep.
  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can promote better sleep but try to finish exercising at least a few hours before bedtime.

  1. Manage Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are common culprits of insomnia. Finding ways to manage these can improve your sleep:

  • Journaling: Writing down your thoughts can help clear your mind.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-I): This is a highly effective treatment for insomnia that helps you address the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep problems.
  • Professional Help: If stress and anxiety persist, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor.

Conclusion

Overcoming insomnia often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and professional guidance. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can create an environment conducive to sleep and develop habits that support better rest. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we are dedicated to helping you achieve restorative sleep. If you continue to struggle with insomnia, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts for personalized care and support

Snooze Away Stress: Combating Insomnia for Stress Awareness Month

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Snooze Away Stress: Combating Insomnia for Stress Awareness Month

April is Stress Awareness Month as the month unfolds, it’s imperative to shine a light on the profound impact stress has on our sleep, particularly in the realm of insomnia. Comprehensive Sleep Care Center is here to shed light on this issue and offer practical tips to help you reclaim restful nights and tackle stress head-on.

Understanding Insomnia and Its Link to Stress:

Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, is often intricately intertwined with stress. The relentless chatter of worries and anxieties can hijack our minds, making it nearly impossible to unwind and drift into slumber. Moreover, the vicious cycle emerges as insufficient sleep exacerbates stress, creating a challenging cycle to break.

Tips to Combat Insomnia and Reduce Stress:

  • Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine:

    • Prioritize winding down before bed with calming activities such as reading, gentle stretching, or practicing mindfulness meditation.
    • Steer clear of stimulating activities like scrolling through your phone or watching intense TV shows, as they can hinder your ability to unwind.

  • Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment:

    • Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep by keeping it cool, dark, and quiet.
    • Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that support your body and promote relaxation.

  • Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule:

    • Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
    • Consistency reinforces your body’s internal clock, helping regulate your sleep-wake cycle and enhance sleep quality.

  • Limit Exposure to Stimulants:

    • Minimize consumption of caffeine and nicotine, especially in the afternoon and evening, as they can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
    • Similarly, avoid heavy meals and excessive fluids close to bedtime to prevent discomfort and disruptions during the night.

  • Manage Stress Through Healthy Coping Mechanisms:

    • Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
    • Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to address underlying stressors and develop effective coping strategies.

This Stress Awareness Month, let’s prioritize the critical relationship between stress, insomnia, and overall well-being. By implementing these tips and fostering healthy sleep habits, you can empower yourself to break free from the grip of stress and reclaim restorative sleep. Remember, Comprehensive Sleep Care Center is here to support you on your journey to better sleep. Here’s to snoozing away stress and embracing a life of vitality and resilience!

The Connection Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain

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Understanding the Connection Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Weight Gain

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand the intricate relationship between sleep disorders and overall health. One such condition that often goes undiagnosed but can have significant implications on weight management is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This interruption in breathing is typically caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, leading to the obstruction of the airway. OSA not only disrupts sleep patterns but also impacts various aspects of physical and mental well-being.

The Link Between OSA and Weight Gain

Research has shown a bidirectional relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and weight gain. Individuals with excess weight are at a higher risk of developing OSA due to factors such as increased neck circumference and fat deposits around the upper airway. Conversely, OSA can contribute to weight gain or hinder weight loss efforts through several mechanisms:

  1. Metabolic Changes: Sleep deprivation and disrupted sleep patterns associated with OSA can affect hormones involved in appetite regulation, such as leptin and ghrelin. This imbalance may lead to increased cravings for high-calorie foods and impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, contributing to weight gain.
  2. Energy Expenditure: The fragmented sleep characteristic of OSA can result in daytime fatigue and decreased physical activity levels. Reduced energy expenditure coupled with increased calorie intake can create an imbalance that promotes weight gain over time.
  3. Insulin Resistance: OSA has been linked to insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes and weight gain. Insulin resistance can impair the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels and promote fat storage, further exacerbating weight-related issues.

Treating Sleep Apnea to Aid in Weight Loss

Addressing Obstructive Sleep Apnea is crucial not only for improving sleep quality and overall health but also for supporting weight management goals. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options to help individuals effectively manage OSA and its associated complications.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and weight gain are closely intertwined, with each condition influencing the other in a complex interplay. By recognizing the connection between OSA and weight management, individuals can take proactive steps to address both issues simultaneously. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve quality sleep, optimal health, and successful weight management through comprehensive care and support.

If you suspect you may have Obstructive Sleep Apnea we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. Together, we can develop a tailored treatment plan to improve your sleep quality, enhance your overall well-being, and support your weight loss journey.

Contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center today to take the first step towards better sleep and a healthier lifestyle.

 

Top Ten Foods to Avoid for a Good Night’s Sleep

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Top Ten foods to avoid to get a good night’s sleep

Do you find yourself tossing and turning at night, struggling to get a good night’s sleep? The solution might be as simple as watching what you eat before bedtime. What you consume in the hours leading up to sleep can have a significant impact on the quality of your slumber. At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we understand the importance of a restful night’s sleep, which is why we’re here to help you make informed choices about your pre-sleep snacks. In this blog, we’ll explore the top ten foods to avoid before bedtime to ensure you wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

1. Caffeine

It’s no surprise that caffeine tops our list. Coffee, tea, and even some sodas contain caffeine, a stimulant that can disrupt your sleep. The half-life of caffeine varies from person to person, but it can remain in your system for several hours, affecting your ability to fall asleep and the quality of your sleep once you do.

2. Alcohol

While a nightcap may seem like a good idea, alcohol can disrupt your sleep cycle. It may initially make you feel drowsy, but it can lead to fragmented and less restorative sleep. To enjoy a better night’s sleep, consider limiting alcohol intake, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime.

3. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can cause heartburn and indigestion, making it difficult to relax and fall asleep comfortably. Avoid spicy dishes before bedtime and opt for milder alternatives to prevent these discomforts.

4. High-Fat Foods

High-fat foods, such as greasy or fried items, can be difficult to digest and may lead to discomfort during the night. These foods can also trigger acid reflux, leading to disrupted sleep. Opt for lighter, easily digestible meals closer to bedtime.

5. Heavy or Large Meals

Eating large meals or heavy portions late at night can be problematic for your sleep. Your body works to digest the food, which can cause discomfort and even lead to sleep-disrupting heartburn. Try to finish your last substantial meal at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.

6. Sugary Snacks

Sugary treats like candy, chocolate, and desserts can lead to energy spikes and crashes, making it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. High sugar consumption before bed can also lead to nighttime awakenings, so choose healthier options for your evening snacks.

7. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, like oranges and grapefruits, are acidic and can cause heartburn or acid reflux. If you’re prone to these conditions, it’s best to avoid citrus fruits before bedtime.

8. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are also acidic and can contribute to heartburn, especially when consumed close to bedtime. Consider limiting tomato-based sauces or dishes in the evening.

9. High-Protein Foods

Protein takes longer to digest than carbohydrates, and consuming too much protein late at night can make it challenging to fall asleep. If you want a bedtime snack, choose something light and low in protein.

10. Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated beverages, such as soda and sparkling water, can lead to gas and bloating, which can be uncomfortable while trying to sleep. Opt for plain water or herbal tea as a more sleep-friendly choice.

 

A good night’s sleep is crucial for your physical and mental well-being, and what you eat before bedtime can significantly affect the quality of your rest. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, spicy, high-fat, and heavy meals, as well as sugary snacks, citrus fruits, tomatoes, high-protein foods, and carbonated drinks can go a long way in promoting better sleep. Instead, consider lighter, sleep-friendly alternatives like herbal tea, whole-grain crackers, or a small portion of a dairy product.

At Comprehensive Sleep Care Center, we encourage you to make mindful choices about your pre-sleep snacks and invest in the restorative sleep your body deserves. If you have sleep related issues contact our sleep medicine providers at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center and Say Hello to Sleep Again…

 

8 Tips to Improve Your Sleep

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8 Tips to Improve Your Sleep

Research suggests that 40% of the adult population does not get the recommended 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. So what can you do to improve your sleep?

Healthy sleep habits can make a big difference in your quality of life. Getting the recommended amount of sleep on a regular basis is linked with better health, including improved attention and memory, the ability to control emotions, your overall quality of life, and mental and physical health.

Adults that regularly get less than seven hours of sleep a night have been linked with poor health, including weight gain, having a body mass index of 30 or higher, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and depression.

Almost all of us could use a better night’s sleep. Yet improving your sleep can seem like a daunting, complicated, and even impossible task. Luckily, there are a few basic, easy to follow tips that can help to improve sleep.

HERE ARE 8 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SLEEP:

  1. Turn off the tech. The blue light emitted from screens wakes you up and turning on night mode doesn’t solve the problem. Watching shows or reading articles stimulates the brain and makes it harder to fall asleep. Try reading a familiar book instead.

 

  1. Keep a consistent sleep schedule. This helps to regulate your body’s clock and could help you fall asleep and stay asleep for the night.

 

  1. Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual. A relaxing wind down routine before bedtime, conducted away from bright lights, helps separate your sleep time from activities that can cause excitement, stress or anxiety which can make it more difficult to fall asleep, get sound and deep sleep, or remain asleep.

 

  1. Exercise daily. Exercise and sleep are both part of a healthy lifestyle. But exercise can interfere with a good night’s rest if it’s done too close to bedtime. Avoid exercise at least 3 hours before you plan on sleeping. This allows your body enough time to relax before falling asleep.

 

  1. Improve your sleep environment. Design your sleep environment to establish the conditions you need for sleep. Your bedroom should be cool – between 65 and 68 degrees. Your bedroom should also be free from any noise that can disturb your sleep. Finally, your bedroom should be free from any light. Check your room for noises or other distractions. This includes a bed partner’s sleep disruptions such as snoring. Consider using blackout curtains, eye shades, ear plugs, “white noise” machines, humidifiers, fans and other devices.

 

  1. Sleep on a comfortable mattress. Make sure your mattress is comfortable and supportive. The one you have been using for years may have exceeded its life expectancy – about 8 or 10 years for most good quality mattresses.

 

  1. Watch your diet before bed. Eating big or spicy meals can cause discomfort from indigestion that can make it hard to sleep. If you can, avoid eating large meals for two to three hours before bedtime. Try a light snack 45 minutes before bed if you’re still hungry.

 

  1. Avoid liquids an hour before bed. Hydration is important, but so is sleep. Go to the bathroom right before bed to avoid waking up in the middle of the night.

Change doesn’t happen immediately. It takes commitment and repetition, but ultimately following these simple rules can help you sleep better.

If you’re still having trouble sleeping, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor or to call one of our sleep medicine specialists here at Comprehensive Sleep Care Center. It could be a more serious sleep disorder like sleep apnea or chronic insomnia.

Sleep Problems and Female Infertility

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Can Sleep Apnea Cause Female Infertility?

Sleep and infertility -Have you ever thought about how they relate to one another?

Sleep plays a vital role in all our lives, affecting our quality of life, health, and yes even fertility. Getting a good night’s sleep helps refresh and restore your brain and body and regulate important hormones. Including the fertility-related hormones. Women with sleep disorders may be more than three times as likely to experience infertility as their counterparts who don’t have trouble sleeping.

A recent study showed that Obstructive Sleep Apnea is more commonly seen in infertile women and increases the odds that a woman will be infertile.

Lack of Sleep Can Affect Fertility-Related Hormones

There’s a long list of “lifestyle” factors that we know can affect the fertility of both women and men. From weight issues, smoking, and stress, but you can add poor quality sleep to that list.

According to the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC), lack of sleep, (6 or less hours a night)- which more than one third of Americans experience, can affect the hormones related to fertility. The part of the brain that regulates “sleep-wake hormones” in both men and women is also responsible for triggering the daily release of hormones that affect ovulation in women and sperm maturation in men.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s study, women with low quality sleep had lower rates of fertility than those getting adequate rest.

The importance of sleep is not only tied to the number of hours, but also to the quality of sleep: waking up frequently during the night disrupts the normal sleep cycle, which includes a deep sleep stage during which the body restores itself. Consistent poor-quality sleep can contribute to:

  • High blood pressure
  • Weight gain
  • Hormone imbalance

all of which can lead to fertility problems.

What Else Connects Sleep and Fertility?

Long-term lack of sleep can disrupt more than your hormonal balance. It can affect your fertility in indirect was too.

  • Mood changes. Over time, this could disrupt your relationship with your spouse or sexual partner.
  • Increasing your health conditions that can affect your fertility. These include diabetes, cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) disease and obesity.

Studies show that Obstructive Sleep Apnea is more commonly seen in infertile women and increases the odds that a woman will be infertile. More studies need to be done and we still have a lot to learn about how exactly sleep disorders may affect infertility. Even so, the results suggest that women can add infertility to the long list of health reasons to get help when they can’t fall or stay asleep.

If you’d like to have your sleep patterns assessed by a professional, or if you want to learn more about getting adequate sleep, please contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center.

Sleep can help beat the Coronavirus

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Sleep Can Help Beat The Coronavirus

A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP CAN HELP YOU FIGHT VIRUSES

Sleep is always important, but right now it plays an integral role in our immune system. Eating right, exercising, and quality sleep all increase the body’s immune system. Quality sleep can also affect how fast a person recovers if they do get sick. Whereas lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making people more vulnerable. Studies show that people who don’t get enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as the common cold, or Coronavirus.

In these times of crisis and stress, our basic needs sometimes go out the window. People are struggling with the myriad of changes in their daily lives due to COVID-19.  From healthcare workers working extra-long and stressful hours. Parents at home with children, struggling to keep them busy. Or those locked down at home binge watching shows or Doomscrolling day and night.

These stresses can significantly impact the quality and duration of our sleep. Lack of sleep, whether from added stress or a significant change in your daily schedule, can have a severe impact on our physical and mental health at a time when we need to be our strongest. A sleep-deprived immune system just doesn’t work as well. Long-term lack of sleep also increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart and cardiovascular disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 35.2% of adults in the United States are getting less than 7 hours of sleep each night. The optimal amount of sleep for most adults is seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night. Teenagers need nine to 10 hours of sleep. School-aged children may need 10 or more hours of sleep.

It can be easy to lose sight of how changes in our daily habits influence our ability to sleep well. The concept of sleep hygiene focuses on how to use your habits and routines to your advantage when it comes to sleep. It also includes optimizing your sleep environment so that you can relax and rest easy when you turn in for the night.

Here are some tips for getting a better night’s sleep:

  1. Stick to a sleep schedule – same bed/wake time, even on the weekends
  2. Dim the lights 2-3 hours before bedtime to stimulate the release of melatonin
  3. Power off all electronic devices 60 minutes prior to bedtime
  4. Create a relaxing pre-bedtime routine
  5. Watch nighttime fluid intake – drink enough fluids, but not so close to bedtime
  6. Avoid naps especially in late afternoon
  7. Exercise daily- but if possible, not within 2-3 hours of bedtime
  8. Get plenty of sunshine
  9. Create a comfortable sleep environment
  10. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and heavy meals in the evening
  11. If you can’t sleep, get out of bed and do something relaxing until you feel tired
  12. Keep a sleep diary to help evaluate common patterns.

 

Stress and sleep are closely linked. We hope that these trying times soon will pass. But if your sleep issues continue, contact one of our Sleep Medicine Professionals. Stay safe out there.