Watch VideoMillions of Americans struggle to fall asleep--Are you one of them?
Story By: David Ortiviz
Source: KOAA
Tossing and turning? Can't get to sleep? It happens to all of us from time to time, but for millions, their sleep disorders are serious. An estimated 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea.
Dr. Dumont Clark of St. Mary-Corwin hospital defined sleep apnea. "When a patient falls asleep their airways tend to close and they stop breathing for a period of time and then (breathes in heavily) they snore loudly usually," said Dr. Clark.
Sleep apnea can cause more than just a restless night of sleep. "It can cause tremendous medical problems. The worst is, it could cause sudden death at night," said Dr. Clark.
A woman from Pueblo, who only wanted to be referred to as Shari, says her husband recently developed a severe case of sleep apnea. "It's very scary and very stressful and its really hard to watch someone have a problem and struggle and not being able to do anything for them, so this sleep lab was really a lifesaver for him," said Shari.
St. Mary-Corwin Medical Center treats people who can't sleep. Dozens went to a free seminar Thursday night to learn how to treat disorders such as sleep apnea. Dr. Clark says it can be as simple as losing weight. "The most common associated factor with obstructive sleep apnea is being overweight," said Dr. Clark.
Another alternative is a breathing device that patients wear at night, to keep their airway open while they sleep. It's called a CPAP, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure. Shari's husband just started to use one. "I'm just looking forward to him getting a good night's sleep and enjoying a long healthy life," said Shari.
Dr. Clark says the best way to tell if you have a sleep disorder is to talk to your mate about your sleeping habits.
10 Sleep Tips from the National Sleep Foundation
1. Maintain a regular bed and wake time schedule including weekends.
2. Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine such as soaking in a hot bath or hot tub and then reading a book or listening to soothing music.
3. Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet, comfortable and cool.
4. Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows.
5. Use your bedroom only for sleep.
6. Finish eating at least 2-3 hours before your regular bedtime.
7. Exercise regularly. It is best to complete your workout at least a few hours before bedtime.
8. Avoid caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate) close to bedtime. It can keep you awake.
9. Avoid nicotine (e.g. cigarettes, tobacco products). Used close to bedtime, it can lead to poor sleep.
10. Avoid alcohol close to bedtime.
