Reading This Story Will Put You To Sleep

SEATTLE - Most of us have trouble sleeping at one time or another. Stress, some types of foods, and too much caffeine can keep you from a good night's sleep. The latest poll by the National Sleep Foundation has found nearly two-thirds of us suffer from insomnia. And it affects more women than men. There are times when the cause can be more serious than just insomnia.

Some experts now say one problem finding the right treatment is finding doctors who have been adequately trained to treat sleep disorders. Sleep researcher Dr. David White notes, "the average medical school in America devotes one to two hours over four years."

And millions may suffer because of that. If a doctor doesn't know about new medications, they may simply suggest lifestyle changes.

Persistent sleep deprivation can cause significant mood swings, erratic behavior, hallucinations, and in the most extreme cases, death. One third of all drivers will fall asleep while driving once in their lifetime.

A new website claims to assist doctors and patients about recognizing and curing sleep disorders. It's called Knowsleep.com. KOMO 4 News checked it out and it does have an impressive board of directors. Plus, there's great information on the site---everything from helping you determine what the problem is to sleep solutions.

From the Knowsleep.com website, here are some tips for successful sleep.

• Maintain a regular routine--when you wake up and when you go to sleep.
• Develop sleep rituals before going to bed. Do the same things in the same order before going to bed to cue your body it's time to sleep.
• Avoid heavy meals before bed. Similarly, avoid going to bed hungry. A light snack, especially dairy foods, can help you sleep.
• Reduce or avoid alcohol, nicotine and caffeine 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.

For more information:

Knowsleep.com
Tips for successful sleep.
National Sleep Foundation.