I feel tired most of the time. Is this normal?
Sleepiness during the day shouldn’t be your normal standard. After a good night’s sleep, you should wake-up feeling refreshed and alert. If you are getting the proper amount of sleep, you shouldn’t be tired during the day.
How does not getting enough sleep really affect me?
Studies show that if you only reduce your amount of sleep time by one and a half hours for just one night, your daytime alertness is reduced by about one-third. Daytime sleepiness can impair your memory and the ability to think and process information.
What should I do if I’m not getting enough sleep?
Follow some of these better sleep tips to wake up feeling refreshed and alert.
- Avoid watching TV, eating, and discussing emotional issues in bed
- Keep your room dark, quiet, well-ventilated and at a comfortable temperature
- Nicotine is a stimulant so don’t smoke before bedtime
- Avoid caffeine at least 4 hours before bedtime
- If you drink alcoholic beverages, consume moderately
- Drink something warm at bedtime
- Set aside worry time prior to bedtime
- If you wake up during the night, don’t turn on a bright light
- Try not to drink fluids after 8 p.m.
- A light snack may be sleep inducing, but avoid a heavy meal too close to bedtime
If you’re not getting enough sleep and have tried the tips above, you should see your doctor because a sleep study may be necessary.
What can my doctor determine from a sleep study?
Your doctor may find the source of your sleeping troubles. The most common types of sleep disorders found are sleep apnea and restless legs disorder, which are easily treated.
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