May is Better Sleep Month and Arthritis Awareness Month
Many people suffer from arthritis—and perhaps even more people suffer from not getting enough sleep each night. During the month of May, which happens to be Arthritis Awareness Month and Better Sleep Month, we thought it would be a good time to explore these conditions and let you know that we have over-the-counter medicines available for both. Let’s dive in!
Better Sleep Month
Did you know that an estimated 50 to 70 million Americans have chronic or ongoing sleep disorders? So if you thought you had trouble going to bed—know that you’re not alone!
Better Sleep Month is an important recognition introduced by the Better Sleep Council to help people improve their sleeping habits. Getting a good night’s sleep is very important for your ability to function throughout the day. Not getting enough hours can also cause other help concerns.
Why Is Sleep So Important?
Sleep is one of the main pillars of good health, as it allows your brain and body to reset. Not getting enough sleep, or sleep deprivation, can lead to grogginess and affect your cognitive function, memory, mood, and energy levels.
How Many Hours of Sleep Should You Get a Night?
For adults ages 18 to 64, the CDC recommends getting 7 to 9 hours of nightly sleep. Children, of course, need more sleep for their development, while it’s recommended older adults get 7 to 8 hours a night. Also, it’s important to note that it’s not just about how many hours of sleep you have each night, but also the quality of your sleep. You’ll know you’re sleeping well if you wake up rested and able to function at an optimal level every day!
Signs of sleep disorders can include not feeling rested even after getting enough sleep, repeatedly waking up during the night, and experiencing symptoms like snoring or gasping. You should see your doctor if these symptoms occur regularly.
Tips for Getting Better Sleep
- Follow a strict sleeping schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (that includes weekends!).
- Avoid drinking alcohol, drinking caffeine or exercising late in the day, eating a big meal before bedtime, and using electronic devices that emit blue light before bedtime. Blue light glasses are a great option to avoid those rays!
- Reduce the temp in your room, turn off any noisy disruptions or use ear plugs, remove distractions
- Take a dose of melatonin for extra help falling asleep, which we carry over the counter here at 501 Pharmacy!
Arthritis Awareness Month
Arthritis impacts more than 50 million Americans (that’s about 23.7% of the population), making it the number one cause of disability in the country. There are several different types of arthritis, but most people who are diagnosed experience pain and stiffness in their bodies, which sometimes makes it hard for them to move or causes their joints to become swollen.
Osteoarthritis
The most common type of arthritis, especially among older people, Osteoarthritis (OA) mostly affects cartilage. The surface layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away, causing bones to rub together and resulting in pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint.
Arthritis Warning Signs
It’s important to recognize the signs of arthritis in you or your loved ones. These include:
- Pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints lasting at least an hour
- Pain and stiffness that worsens with inactivity
- Reduced range of motion
- Possible fever, weight loss, fatigue, and/or anemia
Arthritis Treatments
Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis, but joint pain and other symptoms can be managed through treatment, lifestyle changes, and education. We carry several over-the-counter medicines at 501 Pharmacy to help with pain management.
Stop by 501 Pharamacy
Our team would love to help you on your journey to living a more healthy lifestyle. Stop by and see us today—we’d love to offer more helpful information and recommendations!