PHX Reporter

As summer approaches, many individuals experience challenges in maintaining a regular sleep schedule. Research indicates that during summer months, people often get less sleep due to factors like increased daylight, higher temperatures, and changes in daily routines.

Sleep is vital for overall health. Failing to get at least seven hours of quality sleep regularly can lead to significant physical and mental health issues. Sleep deprivation may cause daytime drowsiness, mood swings, concentration difficulties, and slower cognitive processing. Long-term lack of sleep can contribute to or worsen serious health conditions such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, obesity, immunodeficiency, pain disorders, and mental health issues. The American Heart Association has recently included sleep in its "Life’s Essential 8," highlighting its importance for cardiovascular health.

Dr. Andrew Valenzuela from Banner Health underscores the necessity of adequate sleep for a healthy lifestyle: "Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Chronic sleep deprivation can be the cause or worsen existing health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and cognitive impairment."

To mitigate summer-related sleep disturbances, Dr. Valenzuela advises maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a cool sleeping environment. He also suggests using the bed solely for sleeping to avoid disrupting bedtime associations with other activities like electronics use. Additionally, limiting screen exposure before bedtime is recommended since blue light can hinder melatonin production.

Individuals facing symptoms of sleep deprivation are encouraged to consult with their nearest Banner Sleep Center.

Banner Health operates as one of the largest secular nonprofit healthcare systems in the U.S., managing 33 hospitals alongside an academic medicine division and partnerships with leading cancer programs like MD Anderson Cancer Center. They offer various services including virtual visits with doctors across multiple states.