New Jersey, Daily Sleepiness: A National Epidemic; Here’s Why

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) conducted a survey of adults throughout the United States.

The Results Are Stunning

The AASM survey concluded that 72% of Americans shared that they experience sleepiness “sometimes,” “often” or “always” affects their everyday activities.

There Is An Age & Gender Impact

The survey yielded the following:

• Women (36 percent), Men (25 percent) say that sleepiness affects managing their household.
• Those age 25 to 34 years old (30 percent) and those age 35 to 44 years old were the highest age demographics to reveal that sleepiness directly affects their work and personal relationships.

Dr. Eric Olson Says …

Daytime sleepiness is a common problem that can be detrimental for mood, performance, and quality of life, said Dr. Eric Olson. (Olson is a past president of the AASM and professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota). Healthy sleep enables us to feel great and perform our best during the day, said Olson.

Olson Also Says Not To Rely On Caffeine

Olson says that caffeine is not the answer … rather, it’s proof that your daytime sleepiness is a problem.

56 percent of survey respondents use caffeine to help with sleepiness … with 46 percent taking a nap to get through the day.

Here Are The AASM List Of Signs …

That you may need to talk with a Doctor or sleep specialist.

• Trouble staying awake during normal activities
• Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
• Difficulty with memory or concentration
• Problems falling or staying asleep
• Waking up feeling unrefreshed

The AASM recommends that adults shout get at least 7 hours sleep every night. Few appear to achieve this desired result.

Conclusion:

A recent AASM statement warns that “sleepiness can also harm overall health and safety.”

SOURCE: The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) & Dr. Eric Olson.