Questions about sleep? Dr. Hoffman has answers. Why is good sleep important? The three pillars of optimal health are healthy diet, regular exercise and sleep. Both the quantity and quality of sleep are vital, especially for brain and heart health, as well as overall quality of life. Sleep is not only revitalizing, but it is during sleep that we undergo reparative processes-helping you fight illness. What are some warning signs that might point to a sleep disorder? Important signs of sleep disorders are excessive daytime sleepiness, frequent awakenings, decline of cognitive function, morning headaches, and overall worsening of mood and quality of life. Sometimes, a family member will notice snoring, abnormal breathing or movements during sleep. In children hyperactivity, attention deficit and problems in school may be a sign of poor sleep. Deborah Hoffman, MD Sleep Medicine What steps can be taken to improve sleep? Most adults need to sleep 7-8 hours a night. Try to limit distractions around bed time, by turning off the TV and putting away the cell phone. Develop a relaxing routine and avoid things that are upsetting or disturbing prior to bedtime. Regular exercise improves both sleep quantity and quality, make this a regular part of your day. Diet may also impact sleep. Visit a sleep specialists so we can help you! If you would like to talk to a health care provider about sleep issues, please contact your primary care provider for a referral. If you do not have a primary care provider, call Rocky Mountain Heart & Lung at (406)257-8992 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers. krh.org KALISPELL REGIONAL HEALTHCARE Questions about sleep? Dr. Hoffman has answers. Why is good sleep important? The three pillars of optimal health are healthy diet, regular exercise and sleep. Both the quantity and quality of sleep are vital, especially for brain and heart health, as well as overall quality of life. Sleep is not only revitalizing, but it is during sleep that we undergo reparative processes-helping you fight illness. What are some warning signs that might point to a sleep disorder? Important signs of sleep disorders are excessive daytime sleepiness, frequent awakenings, decline of cognitive function, morning headaches, and overall worsening of mood and quality of life. Sometimes, a family member will notice snoring, abnormal breathing or movements during sleep. In children hyperactivity, attention deficit and problems in school may be a sign of poor sleep. Deborah Hoffman, MD Sleep Medicine What steps can be taken to improve sleep? Most adults need to sleep 7-8 hours a night. Try to limit distractions around bed time, by turning off the TV and putting away the cell phone. Develop a relaxing routine and avoid things that are upsetting or disturbing prior to bedtime. Regular exercise improves both sleep quantity and quality, make this a regular part of your day. Diet may also impact sleep. Visit a sleep specialists so we can help you! If you would like to talk to a health care provider about sleep issues, please contact your primary care provider for a referral. If you do not have a primary care provider, call Rocky Mountain Heart & Lung at (406)257-8992 to schedule a consultation with one of our providers. krh.org KALISPELL REGIONAL HEALTHCARE