The Center for Sleep Medicine at Orange Regional Medical Center will celebrate National Sleep Awareness Week March 3 through March 10 to increase public education and awareness regarding the importance of sleep.

“Sleep deprivation has been linked to serious medical conditions such as stroke, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and even depression,” states Dr. Alan Schaffer, Medical Director of The Center for Sleep Medicine.  “Quickly diagnosing sleep disorders is an essential step in leading a healthier life.”  Dr. Schaffer has over 20 years experience in Sleep Medicine.  In addition to Dr. Schaffer’s expertise, the Center is staffed by Board-certified physicians and specially-trained technicians.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should get at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep is connected to an increase in body mass index as there is a greater change of obesity due to an increased appetite, an increased risk of developing diabetes and heart problems and a decrease in the ability to pay attention, react to signals or remember new information.

The National Sleep Foundation offers the following tips to get a good night’s sleep: establish a regular bed and wake time; avoid nicotine and caffeine close to bedtime; set up a consistent relaxing “wind-down” bedtime routine and create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet and comfortable.

For more information about sleep services at Orange Regional Medical Center or to find out if you are at risk for a sleep disorder, visit www.ormc.org/sleepcenter.