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Learn More: Sleep
When to See a Doctor -- How to Keep a Sleep Diary
Print your sleep diary now.
Diagnosing your sleep problems will be easier for your doctor if you use a sleep diary to track the daily details of your sleep patterns for at least 2 weeks. He or she may give you a form, or you can make your own, to record information like this:
- What time you went to bed
- How long it took you to fall asleep
- If and when you awoke during the night
- What caused you to awaken, if known
- How long you were awake
- What you did when you were awake
- What time you awoke in the morning
- If and when you took a nap, and for how long
If you have a bedmate, ask him or her to add any other observations about your sleep. These details can be very helpful to your healthcare provider.
Also, make notes each day about other lifestyle factors that may affect your sleep. Here are a few:
- Caffeine intake (coffee, tea, chocolate, colas, etc.)
- Alcohol intake
- Nicotine use
- Exercise habits
- Medication use
And don't forget to let your healthcare provider know about any other concerns, stresses, or lifestyle factors that may be affecting your sleep. He or she will use this, along with other information, to complete your diagnosis.
Certain foods and habits that affect your sleep might also affect your RealAge. Take the RealAge Test to find out if your lifestyle is making you younger.
