Are you sleep-deprived? Take our sleep quiz and find out
Are you sleep-deprived? Most of us would answer that question with a casual “yes.” But 40 million Americans suffer from chronic, long-term sleep disorders each year, according to the American Sleep Association (ASA).
Sleep problems can lead to severe health problems, says Dr. Adam Posner, medical director of the Advocate Condell Sleep Disorder Center.
“Sleep disorders are a serious health issue and have been proven to increase a patient’s risk of heart disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes and related conditions,” Posner says.
This accounts for an estimated $16 billion in medical costs each year, says ASA.
Sleep disorders and the resulting sleep deprivation also interfere with work, driving and social activities. “The most common problems include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and narcolepsy,” Posner adds. The indirect costs from lost productivity and other factors are even greater than the medical costs.
Getting the right care
Several tests offered in a sleep lab can measure your sleep cycles and stages. The polysomnograms, for example can record:
- Air flow in and out of the lungs during breathing
- Blood oxygen levels
- Body position
- Brain waves (EEG)
- Breathing effort and rate
- Electrical activity of muscles
- Eye movement
- Heart rate
How can you find out if you have sleep disorder? Start by taking our sleep quiz, then consult your doctor. You may want to consider having a sleep test.
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health enews staff is a group of experienced writers from our Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care sites, which also includes freelance or intern writers.
