On average, adults need about 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night to keep their bodies at peak performance. While everyone’s sleep habits may differ, studies show that sleeping less than 7 hours each night on a regular basis may lead to serious health risks such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and weight gain.

Also, there are certain sleeping disorders that can cause debilitating problems for adults and children. One is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) which is triggered by a lack of air flow throughout the night, leading to frequent brief arousals. OSA symptoms include loud snoring followed by periods of non-breathing and snorting or gasping for air; learning and memory difficulties; and daytime sleepiness. Recent large-scale studies indicate a direct link between sleep apnea and hypertension, obesity, diabetes and stroke risk as well as many other serious health conditions when left undiagnosed and untreated.  

If you are experiencing any of these problems, you can sign up for a sleep study at the Center for Sleep Medicine at Lawrence Hospital. To get a referral or for more information call 914-787-4400.