A.W.A.K.E., a health awareness support group for people affected with sleep apnea, will meet at 6 pm on Thursday, June 6, in the Sarah Bush Lincoln Lumpkin Family Center for Health Education.
Area residents with sleeping disorders are encouraged to join A.W.A.K.E., which stands for Alert, Well, And Keeping Energetic of Central Illinois. People who suffer from sleep apnea, and family members and friends of those who suffer from sleep apnea, are encouraged to attend the meeting. It is free and open to the public. The support group is sponsored and coordinated by SBL Sleep Disorders Center and In Home Medical.
Sleep Technologist Rodney Wildman, RPSGT, will present “How Sleep Affects the Heart.” The meeting will also include free mask fitting, pressure checks and refreshments.
The National Sleep Foundation and Sarah Bush Lincoln suggest people be aware of the following six symptoms that can signal inadequate sleep. If any apply, discuss them with a doctor or other healthcare provider:
• Dozing off while engaged in an activity such as reading, watching TV, sitting in meetings, or sitting in traffic
• Slowed thinking and reacting
• Difficulty listening to what is said or understanding directions
• Frequent errors or mistakes
• Depression or negative mood
• Impatience or being quick to anger
For more information, please contact the Sleep Disorders Center, at (217) 238-4908. Sleep studies are offered in Mattoon at Prairie Pavilion 1, Suite 106, on Sarah Bush Lincoln’s campus and at the SBL Effingham Clinic, located at 905 N. Maple.