Sleep may come naturally for most of us, but it may not be as easy as it sounds. Let's take a quick look at both ends of the age spectrum.
First, infants. When our children were babies (a long time ago), we were taught to lie them on their sides or bellies for sleep. Not anymore!!! Now, based on research to prevent SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome), a back lying position is recommended. Furthermore, the nationwide "Safe Sleep" campaign is promoting the ABC's of safe sleep.
- A = Alone. Babies should sleep alone. "Co-rooming" with an infant is encouraged, but "co-sleeping" is not. There are several deaths annually in Wisconsin resulting from infant suffocation related to sleeping with an adult.
- B = Back. Enough said.
- C = Crib safety. Many of us are not aware that crib bumper pads, blankets and pillows are no longer advised to be used in cribs related to increased risk of suffocation. Since the slats on a crib should be no wider than the width of a Coke can, bumper pads aren't needed. If the slats are wider than that, the crib shouldn't be used.
Next, "older folks". Actually, you don't have to be old or overweight to have sleep apnea, although these factors do increase your risk. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and occurs when the airway collapses or becomes partially blocked. It may be witnessed as pauses or shallow breaths during sleep. These episodes, which can last for a few seconds up to minutes, cause a drop in your oxygen level in your blood. This causes the brain to tell your body to "wake up". If you are snoring, you may snort or make a choking sound before resuming normal breathing. Or, you may wake up. Often a person doesn't know that they have this condition and may wonder why they have headaches, are fatigued, irritable, and have trouble concentrating. Untreated, the risk of hypertension, heart attack, stroke, obesity, diabetes and heart irregularities increases. As you can see, it is important to check with your provider if you are concerned about sleep apnea.
With this being said, have a good nap!
Judith Anderson, APNP
Internal Medicine