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health enews staff is a group of experienced writers from our Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care sites, which also includes freelance or intern writers.
‘Tis the season of traveling to visit family and friends over the holidays. If you are dreading sleeping in a guest room or on a living room futon, you may want to consider a few tips before packing your bag.
Mary Rose Scott, manager with Advocate Sleep Services at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, Ill. offers the following advice to help you sleep over the holidays:
Make a list of everything so nothing is forgotten when you leave home. “If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, pack up your CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy) machine and take it with you,” Scott explains. “If you are flying, take your CPAP on board with your carry-on luggage (the machine does not count as carry-on as it is medical equipment). Also, consider taking an extension cord to be sure you have electricity where you need it in the guest bedroom.”
Following the same sleep routine at your alternate location will help you sleep better. “For example, if you routinely read before you sleep, make sure you pack a good book. Also, if you require medication to improve your sleep, make sure to take it with on your trip,” Scott advises.
If you like to sleep with your feet “not hemmed in,” remember to untuck the blankets and sheets at the foot of the bed before you crawl in. Also, do not forget your favorite pillow or blanket so it ‘feels like home’, she adds.
You may be staying up later than normal or drinking more than normal over the holidays. Too much alcohol, especially too close to bedtime, can make for a rough night, Scott warns.
A positive attitude can help solve a lot of problems. Do not assume you will sleep poorly just because you are away from home. And if you do sleep poorly one night, don’t worry. “Being sleep-deprived may make it easier to fall asleep the following night,” Scott adds.
health enews staff is a group of experienced writers from our Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care sites, which also includes freelance or intern writers.
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