In order for us to be our most productive selves, we need our sleep. Since our to-do list on a daily basis can seem never-ending, we try our best to find more hours in the day. Therefore, cutting sleep is usually how we find more time in the day to get what we need done. However, by losing sleep, we are hurting ourselves more than helping ourselves. Our AFC Urgent Care East Meadow wants you to start getting the sleep you need in order to put your best health forward! Why Is Sleep So Important? Sleep is important for a number of reasons. For starters, getting enough sleep each night can help protect both your mental and physical health. When you are sleep-deprived, you fall at an increased risk of a number of health conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, obesity, heart disease, etc. Effects of Lack of Sleep

• Increases your risk of accidents
• Decreases your ability to think
• Leads to serious health issues
• Increases risk of depression
• Ages skin
• Hurts memory

How Much Sleep Do I Need? The amount of sleep you need each night depends on your age. Most healthy adults need to get at least seven to nine hours of sleep every night. However, children and teens need a few hours more in order to be their most productive selves the next day. Ways to Get a Better Night's Sleep

• Increase bright light exposure during the day.
• Avoid caffeine late in afternoon.
• Wake up and go to bed around same time every day.
• Avoid daytime naps.
• Reduce blue light exposure at night.

Are you having a hard time getting quality sleep at night? Visit AFC Urgent Care East Meadow today for a medical evaluation and treatment plan!