Do I Really Need to Talk to My Doctor About My Sleep Problems ?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), "At least 40 million Americans each year suffer from chronic, long-term sleep disorders, and an additional 20 million experience occasional sleeping problems. These disorders and the resulting sleep deprivation interfere with work, driving and social activities. They also account for an estimated $16 billion in medical costs each year, while the indirect costs due to lost productivity and other factors are probably much greater. Doctors have described more than 70 sleep disorders, most of which can be managed effectively once they are correctly diagnosed."

According to NSF's 2005 Sleep in America poll, when respondents were asked what they would do if they thought they had a sleep problem, only 45% said that they would talk to a doctor. About two in ten respondents (18%) say they would assume the problem would go away or they would do nothing. Seven in ten poll respondents (70%) report that their doctor has never asked them about their sleep. Despite these statistics, about 75% of the Sleep in America poll respondents said they experienced a symptom of a sleep problem a few nights a week or more in the past year. But when asked directly if they think they have a sleep problem, an equal number, 76%, said no.

Important Sleep Information and Experiences to Share with Your Doctor

* You snore most nights -- and how loudly
* You notice or have been told that you gasp for breath or stop breathing during sleep
* You feel sleepy during the day or fall asleep when reading, watching TV or engaging in regular activities
* You fall asleep or doze off when driving or while at work or school
* You have difficulty falling or staying asleep -- and how often this occurs
* You often wake up feeling tired and not rested
* The number of hours you usually sleep each night
* Whether you keep a regular bed and wake time
* You often have disruptions to your sleep -- due to any cause
* You are taking any sleeping pills or other treatments to help you sleep better
* List of medications or supplements you are taking
* You use alcohol or smoke regularly
* The time of day you use caffeine products, exercise and eat your last meal
* You experience nighttime heartburn, pain or the need to urinate
* Your level of stress and whether you have experienced lifestyle changes recently
* You work at night or on rotating shifts