What questions might I ask my doctor about my sleep quality?

If you find that you are having daytime sleepiness or know that you snore at night, you may wish to speak with your physician about your quality of sleep. Poor sleep doesn’t just leave you feeling tired during the day; it can also contribute to medical problems such as cardiovascular disease

The following questions can help you talk to your physician about your sleep concerns. Print out or write down these questions and take them with you to your appointment. Taking notes can help you remember your physician’s response when you get home.

• How much sleep should I aim to get each night?
• What can I do to promote good-quality sleep?
• Is my heart disease contributing to my sleep problems?
• Are certain sleeping positions better than others to help me get the sleep I need?
• Are my sleep problems affecting my heart disease?
• Is my snoring a sign of sleep apnea? How does sleep apnea affect my heart?
• Do any of my current medications cause sleepiness or insomnia?
• I’m feeling stressed and I can’t sleep well at night. What can I do about my stress level?
• Are there any sleep medications that can improve my sleep?