Take Sleep Medicine
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| FAST
FACTS |
- It is common
for older adults to sleep less soundly and have frequent
wakeful periods during the night. This often leads to more
daytime tiredness.
- Many over-the-counter
and prescription drugs can disturb sleep. These include:
Advil; Motrin; Aspirin; some medications to treat high blood
pressure; heart disease; asthma, or Parkinson's disease;
and thyroid hormone treatment medication.
- Several medical
conditions may affect quality and duration of sleep: arthritis;
osteoporosis; heartburn; menopause; Alzheimer's disease;
and any condition that causes pain.
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| WHAT
TO DO |
- Talk to your
doctor about your medications if you are having difficulty
sleeping.
- Avoid daytime
naps. If you are feeling so tired that you must nap, sleep
for less than 30 minutes early in the day.
- Limit caffeine
and alcohol intake for several hours before bedtime. Alcohol
may initially act as a sedative but disrupts sleep patterns
and leads to a restless night sleep.
- Do not smoke.
Nicotine is a stimulant and can make it difficult to sleep.
- Exercise early
in the day. Exercise is important for a good night's sleep.
- Do not eat large
meals before bedtime. Heavy meals may interfere with sleep.
- Drink warm milk
before bedtime. Milk and dairy products contain a natural
substance that enhances sleep.
- Make your bedroom
a place to sleep and rest. A quiet, dark room with good
ventilation is best.
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| WHERE
TO GO |
- Contact your
doctor if you have persistent difficulty sleeping.
WEB LINKS
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