Lack of sleep increases risk for health concerns | News

THOMASVILLE, GA (WALB) - A new CDC report shows 30 percent of American adults sleep six or fewer hours a day.

And sleep deprivation has its consequences.

The report says drowsy drivers play a role in up to 20 percent of car crashes.

And chronic lack of sleep increases risk for health conditions such as obesity, depression, heart disease, and diabetes. 

We all have our reasons why we sometimes toss and turn at night. The bed is uncomfortable, the room is too hot, or we may have a lot on our mind.

But sometimes the problem is more serious. "Some of the health risks could lead to cardiovascular disease. Diabetes has been shown with lack of sleep," said Adult Health Supervisor June Eddings.

A new report shows 44 percent of folks who work night shifts are short sleepers, compared to 29 percent of folks who work during the day.

"Stress can cause lack of sleep or lack of sleep can cause increased stress so it's kind of hand in hand," said Eddings.

Sleep experts say some folks who do have trouble sleeping, may need to be tested for sleep apnea. "If you're snoring, if your partner notices you are gasping for breath at night. Snoring, choking, excessive gained weight, sometimes even depression," said Archbold Sleep Center's Neurodiagnostics Coordinator Kim Blackburn.

But some experts say a few minor adjustments could make all the difference. "Just having a good environment for sleep. No TV watching. A lot of people who watch TV late at night or listen to music you know do not sleep as well," said Eddings.

"Keep a diary on the times you go to sleep. Be careful of your alcohol intake, caffeine intake at least two hours before going to sleep," said Blackburn.

Experts say taking care of a sleep disorder, could end up saving your life. "The patients who have sleep apnea can have an underlying heart disease. You treat the sleep apnea, you're treating the heart disease," said Blackburn.

People aged 30 to 44 make up the age group most likely to be sleep deprived.

Others who are not getting enough sleep include people who hold down more than one job, widows, divorcees, or recently separated partners.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends we get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

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