Whether it’s tomorrow’s federal tax deadline or late-night war coverage on T-V, a sleep expert says many Iowans aren’t getting enough shut-eye lately. Neurologist Dr. Steve Rasmus, medical director for the Genesis Sleep Disorders Center in Davenport, says the local news or C-N-N might -not- be what many folks need just before bedtime. Dr. Rasmus suggests creating a winding-down period in the evening before bedtime. “Create a safe haven for sleep,” he says, “Don’t work or socialize late into the evening. Get prepared to go to sleep and only use the bedroom for sleep.” Rasmus has a few tips for things that might work to relax you prior to hitting the sack.Studies by the National Sleep Foundation indicate 58-percent of the U.S. adult population has some trouble with insomnia at least a few nights a week. Left unchecked, Rasmus says insomnia can lead to depression. He suggests taking a bath, reading, reading a story to the kids, anything that would get you into a calm state of mind and ready for bed.He says to practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding smoking, drinking alcohol or caffeine, eating or exercise just before bedtime.
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