Sleep is an important basic human need that is as vital to good heath as diet and exercise.  Yet millions of Americans aren't getting the restful sleep they need because they do not have proper sleep habits.  

If you have trouble sleeping and have unsuccessfully attempted to change your sleep habits, you may have a more serious problem such as a sleeping disorder.  A few examples of sleep disorders include: sleep apnea, insomnia, & snoring.    

Your doctor may refer you to a sleep disorders center such as the one at Loris Healthcare System. The centers are staffed with sleep specialists who will ask you questions about your sleep problems and monitor your sleep overnight in order to determine what the problem is and how to treat it.  Together with your doctor, sleep clinic professionals will work to discover the cause of your sleep problems and get you back on the road to restful sleep once again.

For more information on the Sleep Clinic at Loris Healthcare System, see your doctor or call 843-716-7578.

Here are some tips from the National Sleep Foundation that can help you form better sleep habits that will lead to a better night's sleep:

• Keep a regular sleep schedule
• Avoid caffeine
• Avoid nicotine
• Avoid alcohol
• Don't eat or drink too much close to bedtime
• Use relaxing bedtime rituals to create a sleep promoting environment
• Associate your bed with sleep and sex only
• Limit sleep time in bed