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Education
In conjunction with the National Sleep Foundation and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Merit can provide educational seminars on sleep disorders and sleep health. For upcoming seminars and in-services, please see News & Events
Can’t Sleep? Myths - and Facts - About Sleep
There are many common myths about sleep. We hear them frequently and may even experience them far too often. Sometimes they can be characterized as “old wives tales,” but there are other times the incorrect information can be serious and even dangerous. The National Sleep Foundation has compiled this list of common myths about sleep and the facts that dispel them.
- Snoring is a common problem, especially among men, but it isn’t harmful.
Although snoring may be harmless for most people, it can be a symptom of a life threatening sleep disorder called sleep apnea, especially if it is accompanied by severe daytime sleepiness. Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing that prevent air from flowing into or out of a sleeping person’s airways. People with sleep apnea awaken frequently during the night gasping for breath. The breathing pauses reduce blood oxygen levels, can strain the heart and cardiovascular system, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Snoring on a frequent or regular basis has been directly associated with hypertension. Obesity and a large neck can contribute to sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can be treated; men and women who snore loudly, especially if pauses in the snoring are noted, should consult a physician.
- You can “cheat” on the amount of sleep you get.
Sleep experts say most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for optimum performance, health and safety. When we don't get adequate sleep, we accumulate a sleep debt that can be difficult to “pay back” if it becomes too big. The resulting sleep deprivation has been linked to health problems such as obesity and high blood pressure, negative mood and behavior, decreased productivity, and safety issues in the home, on the job, and on the road.
- Turning up the radio, opening the window, or turning on the air conditioner are effective ways to stay awake when driving.
These “aids” are ineffective and can be dangerous to the person who is driving while feeling drowsy or sleepy. If you're feeling tired while driving, the best thing to do is to pull off the road in a safe rest area and take a nap for 15-45 minutes. Caffeinated beverages can help overcome drowsiness for a short period of time. However, it takes about 30 minutes before the effects are felt. The best prevention for drowsy driving is a good night’s sleep the night before your trip.
- Teens who fall asleep in class have bad habits and/or are lazy.
According to sleep experts, teens need at least 8.5 – 9.25 hours of sleep each night, compared to an average of seven to nine hours each night for most adults. Their internal biological clocks also keep them awake later in the evening and keep them sleeping later in the morning. However, many schools begin classes early in the morning, when a teenager's body wants to be asleep. As a result, many teens come to school too sleepy to learn, through no fault of their own.
Resources
Support Group
The A.W.A.K.E Support Group
The American Sleep Apnea Association A.W.A.K.E. Network is composed of approximately 200 mutual-help support groups in nearly all 50 states for people affected by sleep apnea. Local A.W.A.K.E. members plan and implement each group's activities so that they meet the needs of each individual group. Meetings, led by the A.W.A.K.E. coordinator, are held regularly and guest speakers are often invited to address the group. Topics may include advice on complying with CPAP therapy, legal issues affecting those with sleep apnea, weight loss and new research findings. For more information, please call (630) 375-9499.
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