Monday, July 20, 2009
What: According to a recent study conducted by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), one in three Americans is losing sleep due to the state of the economy and personal financial concerns. Presbyterian sleep expert, Dr. Charles Sherrill Jr., also reports seeing a spike in patients at Presbyterian Sleep Medicine Huntersville who are suffering from sleep difficulties tied to job loss, loss of investments and other pressures and problems caused by a difficult economic climate.
Why: Sleep is essential to good health, and sleep loss and other sleep conditions such as sleep apnea that continue for long periods of time increases one’s risk of developing other health complications including obesity, stroke, high blood pressure and depression. More than 40 million Americans suffer from sleep disorders, many of which are undiagnosed.
How: “If you suspect a sleep problem, talk to your physician,” said Dr. Sherrill, a board-certified sleep physician. “Your doctor can determine if a sleep evaluation by a physician specially-trained in sleep medicine is appropriate for you.” Patients can also self-refer and arrange an evaluation with a sleep physician directly. Call 704-316-2050 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sherrill today.
Tips for a Restful Night
- Exercise regularly, but do so early in the evening: exercising right before bed can make it more difficult for you to sleep.
- Develop a regular sleep routine: turn down the lights at night and minimize evening time in front of the computer and TV.
- Eliminate caffeine after 2 p.m.: it lingers in your system for hours and it may decrease the quality of sleep.
- Develop strategies to ease stress: try walking everyday with your spouse, child or dog and/or talk to a counselor. Consider setting aside some time two hours or more before bedtime to write down everything that’s on your mind. Avoid emotionally charged conversations close to bedtime.
- Be physically healthy: lose unwanted pounds; stop smoking; limit your alcohol intake; exercise more.
- Get unplugged: turn off the cell phone, PDA, computer, etc., at night. Give yourself a break from the incessant drone of electronic noise and distractions.
