Nearly a third of American adults struggle to get a good night’s sleep on a regular basis. Even though people know that proper sleep is essential to maintaining good health, sleep is often left undiscussed during most doctor visits.
An online survey conducted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine on April 2, 2026, found that 45% of adults reported never discussing sleep quality with their doctors. This could cause real harm, according to an ASSM expert. Sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea are often underdiagnosed as medical conversations about sleep simply never start. When health care professionals don’t ask about sleep, patients don’t generally bring it up. These are the main reasons that sleep disorders are often neglected, and people keep suffering from them. The expert’s report suggested that patients should take the initiative to start the conversation during their next clinical visit to ensure a proper discussion of sleep issues.
In the survey, women feel more uncomfortable than men talking about their sleep problems with their doctors. Almost 49% of women said they never had sleep-related conversations with their doctors, compared to 40% of men.
AASM recommends a few questions to ask yourself if you think that you are suffering from sleep issues. These are:
- Do you wake up feeling rested or refreshed?
- Do you get a proper 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night?
- Do you regularly feel drowsy during the day?
- Do you face problems falling or staying asleep?
- Do you snore?
- Have you woken up in the middle of the night, gasping for air?
People should aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night to maintain good health, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Sleep is deeply linked to cardiovascular health, mental well-being, immune function, and longevity, as per the Harvard Health. When people don’t get the chance to address their sleep problems, the consequences can be perilous. Insufficient sleep is associated with elevated risks of heart problems, metabolic disorders, depression, cognitive decline, and daytime sleepiness. These lead to driving accidents, workplace mistakes, and inappropriate sleep patterns.
Discussing sleep habits with doctors is important for both long-term wellness and quality of life.
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Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication or treatment.