Sleep Awareness Week Highlights the Importance of Getting a Better Night’s Sleep
3/11/2025
World Sleep Day Recognized Friday, March 14, 2025
Sleep is something everyone needs, but many people find difficult to get. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 50 million Americans experience chronic, long-term sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome or narcolepsy and an additional 20 million experience occasional sleeping problems.
Sleep deprivation interferes with daily life including productivity, driving and social activities, and can also have long term effects on cardiovascular health. Recent evidence suggests that chronic sleep disturbances may increase the risk of developing dementia. There are many treatment options for sleep disorders, and sometimes simply making small lifestyle changes can help you get a better night’s sleep.
“Your body has an internal clock or circadian rhythm that naturally tells it when to wake up and go to sleep by releasing hormones and changing your body temperature,” said Deedra King, manager of Carlsbad Medical Center’s Cardiopulmonary Services and Sleep Lab. “Often times these natural rhythms get off track causing difficulties sleeping.”
During sleep, your body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure lower to conserve energy, the brain refreshes by removing waste and your body works to rebuild parts that have been stressed during the day. Lack of sleep is associated with many different disorders. Not getting the proper amount of sleep does not allow your body to rejuvenate.
Most people who have difficulty sleeping can make lifestyle changes and see improvements in their quality of sleep. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Exercise daily and avoid alcohol or caffeine before bedtime. If you can, try not to eat a large meal two-three hours before bedtime. Make sure that you have a relaxing bedtime routine and that you only use your bed for sleeping.
Research has recently shown that use of electronic devices immediately before bed can disrupt your circadian rhythms. Cell phones and laptops emit blue light that tells your body it is time to wake up. It is recommended that you stop using electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
“If lifestyle changes do not help you sleep better you may need to see a doctor and talk about treatment options,” said King. “Your physician might suggest you do a sleep study, and home sleep studies are making it easier than ever to get this kind of testing done.”
Talk to your primary care provider today if you are having difficulty sleeping. If you need assistance finding a provider, visit www.PecosValleyDocs.com. For more information on Carlsbad Medical Center’s Sleep Lab and the testing options available, visit www.CarlsbadMedicalCenter.com/sleep-disorders-center.
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