COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT SLEEP
Sleep is a vital factor for good health. Getting proper rest helps to safeguard your mental and physical health. When your body goes too long without proper rest, you’re at risk of health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. The team at the Pain & Sleep Therapy Center wants to share some common sleep myths.
COMMON SLEEP MYTHS
Myth: As an older person, I don’t need as much sleep.
Fact: Throughout a lifetime, sleep patterns will change, but the amount of sleep necessary doesn’t. As you age, you may wake up more often during the night and sleep more in the daytime. The average adult still needs seven to nine hours of sleep.
Myth: Many people snore; it’s natural and it isn’t harmful.
Fact: For some people, snoring is harmless, but for others, it may be a sign of sleep apnea. The condition causes those affected to have cycles of interrupted air flow. They awaken with each episode. Untreated, sleep apnea can reduce blood oxygen levels and strain the heart and respiratory system. The strain increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, or stroke.
Myth: Insomnia means not sleeping at night.
Fact: Many people define insomnia as difficulty falling asleep, but there are other symptoms as well, such as waking up before you should and not going back to sleep, waking up frequently at night, and tiredness after waking. Insomnia happens for several reasons, most commonly due to sleep disorder or psychological or medical issues.
Myth: I’m always tired, I must not be sleeping well.
Fact: You can get plenty of sleep at night and still be tired. If you are sleeping a full night’s sleep but still awaken tired, you may have a medical condition contributing to your lack of energy. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, we can help. There are plenty of myths about sleep. To get the facts, contact our office today. We serve patients in Granger, Indiana, and the surrounding areas.
