5 Steps to a Good Night's Sleep

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Step 3

Zap your rest robbers: Okay, you're ready to get your eight hours, but something else is keeping you up. In a word: pain. Backache. Headache. Cramps. "Pain is the number-one reason why people can't sleep," says Smith. If over-the-counter meds don't help, see your doctor. It sounds like a no-brainer, but, experts say, you'd be surprised how many people try to tough it out.

Other common sleep stoppers are easier to fix. For one thing, kick your kids, pets, computers, and any work-related reading out of bed. "Americans turn their bedrooms into Grand Central Station," says Smith. "Clear out the clutter." If your partner's snoring is the problem, turn on some white noise, such as a fan, to help drown out the racket. You should also send him to a sleep doctor. Loud snoring and twitching can be symptoms of serious disorders, including sleep apnea.

The Truth About Women and Pain >>

Next: Step 4

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pegenereux wrote:

Good ideas...but drop the ipod ads...just say listen to music using your mp3 or other handheld device...not everyopne is an ipod user! THanks

10/24/2012 09:22:37 PM Report Abuse

cabrooker1 wrote:

Go to http://www.InsomniaDoc.com to get real advice on how to treat insomnia from a Cleveland Clinic-trained Sleep Doctor and Neurologist, Dr. Craig Brooker, M.D.

12/2/2011 03:20:59 PM Report Abuse

beautyinsimplet wrote:

i find it odd that it recommends reading a couple chapters of your favorite book only to follow up with....dont take books to bed?

10/19/2011 02:29:22 PM Report Abuse

evelyndamayon66 wrote:

the exercises are helpful to have good sleep. thank you

9/4/2011 07:48:01 PM Report Abuse

rrogerg wrote:

Nice article but we all know that we need to sleep more and have a regular and timely routine for getting the zzz we need. Would have been more helpful if it would have addressed ways to actually fall asleep and stay asleep. Or how about discussing natural alternatives and fitness routines that help promote better and more fulfilling rest at night.

12/16/2009 08:13:47 PM Report Abuse