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Not Getting Enough Sleep Growing Problem

About 50 million people in the U.S. are affected by chronic sleep problems and which can affect their careers, their safety and their health.

The majority of American adults do not get adequate sleep needed for good health, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Dr. Joseph Henkle, professor of pulmonary medicine at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says continually getting less sleep than is needed can cause significant consequences.

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Dr. Henkle says medical problems resulting from chronic sleep loss can include putting individuals at higher risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and changes in metabolism. Seven to nine hours of sleep per day is recommended for most adults. He explains why people do not get enough sleep.

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Sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea also can prevent people from getting quality sleep. These conditions are treatable, so if someone in your family has sleep problems, they should see a primary care physician for evaluation and possible treatment. If the problem is severe, they may be referred to a sleep specialist.

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