People of all ages suffer in various and unhealthy ways from sleep deprivation, according to a recent press release issued by Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC).  Dr. Aneesa Das, a sleep medicine specialist at Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center, said, “For children, sleep deprivation can lead to behavior problems, trouble focusing and learning in school and it can affect their immune systems.”   When a child becomes a teenager, sleep becomes even more of an issue.  A teen’s internal body clock tells them to stay awake later and sleep later than children and adults do. Das says only 15 percent of teenagers get the recommended amount of sleep.   With adults, sleep loss is an even more serious issue. Lack of sleep accumulates over the years and has been shown to contribute to several chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression and obesity. Insomnia or sleep apnea are more likely in adulthood. People should see a sleep specialist if they are chronically tired or not sleeping through the night.

Chances of getting a good night’s sleep can be impoved with the following tips:

• Don’t perform vigorous exercise within four hours of bedtime

• Don’t perform vigorous exercise within four hours of bedtime.

• Don’t use  tablets, phones and laptops before bed that emit blue light that interferes with sleep.

• A warm bath a couple of hours before bedtime.

• Dim lights when winding down

• Beware of sleep aid medications because they can have side effects.

• Cutting back on Caffeine, especially after the morning