MYTH: While snoring is a common problem, especially among men, it isn’t harmful.
FACT: While snoring is harmless for most people, it can be a symptom of a life-threatening sleep disorder called sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea is characterized by pauses in breathing that prevent air from flowing into or out of a sleeping person’s airways and severe daytime sleepiness. People with sleep apnoea awaken frequently during the night gasping for breath. The breathing pauses reduce blood oxygen levels, can strain the heart and cardiovascular system, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Snoring on a frequent or regular basis has been directly associated with hypertension. Obesity and a large neck can contribute to sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea can be treated; men and women who snore loudly, especially if pauses in the snoring are noted, should consult a physician.
MYTH: You can "cheat" on the amount of sleep you get.
FACT: No you can’t. Sleep experts say most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for optimum performance, health and safety. Sleep deprivation has been linked to health problems such as obesity and high blood pressure, negative mood and behaviour, decreased productivity, and safety issues in the home, on the job, and on the road.
MYTH: Turning up the radio, opening the window, or turning on the air conditioner are effective ways to stay awake when driving.
FACT: No, they don’t work, and can be dangerous to drowsy or sleepy drivers. If you feel tired while driving, pull off the road in a safe rest area and take a nap for 15-45 minutes. It could save your life, and the lives of others. The best prevention for drowsy driving is a good night’s sleep the night before your trip.
MYTH: Teens who fall asleep in class have bad habits and/or are lazy.
FACT: According to sleep experts, teens need at least 8.5 – 9.25 hours of sleep each night, more than most adults. Their internal biological clocks keep them awake later in the evening and keep them sleeping later in the morning. Many schools begin classes early in the morning, when a teenager's body wants to be asleep, through no fault of their own.
MYTH: The four warning signals of insomnia.
• Difficulty falling asleep.
• Waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep,
• Frequent awakenings
• Waking up feeling unrefreshed.
FACT: Insomnia can be a symptom of a sleep disorder or other medical or psychological/psychiatric problem, and can often be treated. When insomnia symptoms occur more than a few times a week and impact a person’s daytime functions, talk to your doctor.
