There are times when medical science and folk wisdom join hands. Such seems to be case when it comes to notions about sleep. Old expressions — "sleep on it," "get some rest," "things will look different in the morning" — are proving to be just what the doctor ordered.
A chronic inability to sleep affects 70 million Americans today. And the fallout from it results in much more than "heavy lids." Lack of sleep costs the country billions in medical expenses. Accident rates rise when sleepiness creeps in. Lost productivity at work comes from the failure of the immune system, the memory loss and lack of concentration triggered by drowsiness.
In fact, studies by the Institute of Medicine show that one person in 10 suffers from chronic insomnia. Sleep apnea, sleep walking and restless leg syndrome affect millions more. In all, there are more than 80 different sleep disorders Americans must deal with.
The problem is most medical students get little training in how to deal with sleep disorders. True, there has been more interest in the topic in recent years, and special facilities have opened to treat sleep disorders. But more research and training programs need to be funded to help doctors get out in front of the problem.
As for the nation's corps of sleep-deprived, there are things people can to do help turn the trend around in their own lives. Longer workdays, computer use and television watching take up more of people's time, so physical activity is down. Exercise is one good way to combat restlessness at bedtime.
The National Sleep Foundation also offers tips for people who simply may need a little help dozing off. The Foundation suggests steering clear of coffee, cola drinks, chocolate and other foods with caffeine. Sometimes caffeine can have an effect on sleep 12 hours after you digest it. Keeping your bedroom cool, dark and quiet helps, as does opting for quiet activities before bedtime — like listening to soft music, meditating or taking a warm bath. Having a regular bedtime is another good idea.
In the end, much is being done with sleep studies, but more needs to be done.
Sleeplessness is a problem that spills over into every other aspect of life and affects not only the drowsy, but everyone around them.