Fact and Myths about Sleep
Statement 1: Adults need seven or more hours of sleep for optimal health.
FACT: The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, with whom we are accredited, recommends that adults should sleep seven or more hours on a regular basis to promote optimal health. More information is available here.
Statement 2: People need less sleep with age.
FICTION: While older adults tend to have more fragmented sleep, it is likely they still need the same amount of sleep as older adults. More information is available here.
Statement 3: You can catch up on lost sleep on weekends.
FICTION: Depending on how much ‘sleep debt’ you have accumulated, you can catch up on some lost sleep on the weekends, but it normally takes more than two days to get back to a rested sleep. More information is available here.
Statement 4: Watching TV as you go to sleep can impair the quality of sleep.
FACT: While some people like to have the background noise of the TV to help them fall asleep, the changing volume and lighting of the TV can break up the quality of your sleep and may lead you to wake up in the middle of the night. More information is available here.
Statement 5: There is very little evidence of specific foods helping or interfering with sleep.
FACT: People commonly believe that drinking a warm glass of milk or hot herbal tea will help you sleep, but there is little evidence to support that. More information is available here.
Statement 6: Exercising at night will help you sleep.
FICTION: People who exercise regularly tend to sleep better, but if you exercise too close to bed it elevates your core body temperature and may make it tough to fall asleep. It’s best to avoid aerobic exercise in the 1 to 2 hours before you go to bed. More information is available here.
Statement 7: Once you have been prescribed a CPAP, you never have to visit your doctor again.
FICTION: After you have been been prescribed a CPAP, you have to visit your doctor at least once a year, and he/she may recommend you get reevaluated after five years.
Statement 8: If left untreated, sleep apnea can cause serious health concerns, like high blood pressure, frequent urination and worsening of dementia.
FACT: If left untreated, sleep apnea can cause these health concerns and more!
Statement 9: If you having trouble sleeping, you should contact the Sleep Center for help!
FACT: At the Saline Health System Sleep Center, our mission is to help you get a good night’s sleep. Our sleep specialists provide evaluations and treatment options for patients 12 years of age and older. Give us a call at 501.776.6197!