Most of us could use a little more sleep. Watching television, or working on the computer keep many people up well past their “bedtime.” Many migraineurs know that insufficient sleep can trigger a headache.
The National Sleep Foundation suggests adults get eight hours each night, but the average is about seven. Older adults may sleep a bit more than adults, but it can be fragmented between day and night.
Teens need at least nine hours or more of sleep per night but rarely get it. While most high schools begin classes before 8:00 a.m. there has been a recent trend to push back starting time to 9:00 a.m. Administrators and parents have recognized the importance of allowing teens to benefit from the extra hour of sleep. Teens also tend to get less headaches and depression when they get enough sleep.
While these are recommendations, genetics and lifestyle play a part in how much sleep everyone needs. For those who power nap during the day, less sleep at night may be okay.
