5 Things to Know About Sleep Health During Sleep Awareness Month

As part of Sleep Awareness Month, experts say quality sleep is just as important as diet and exercise for overall health. According to Alessandra Gearhart, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, poor sleep can impact everything from heart health to mental well-being.

1. Sleep is critical to whole-body health
Sleep affects nearly every system in the body. “Sleep is not a luxury—it’s essential,” says Dr. Gearhart. “We see direct links between poor sleep and conditions like high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases, weakened immunity, anxiety and depression, for example.”
Sleep specialists routinely treat patients whose sleep issues are tied to broader health concerns.

2. Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed
One of the most common sleep disorders is obstructive sleep apnea, which can cause repeated breathing interruptions during sleep. Many patients don’t realize they have it.
“Snoring, daytime fatigue, and morning headaches are all warning signs,” Dr. Gearhart explains. “Untreated sleep apnea can significantly increase long-term health risks.”

3. Poor sleep can affect mental health and performance
Lack of sleep doesn’t just cause fatigue—it can impact mood, focus, and productivity.
“Sleep plays a major role in cognitive function and emotional regulation,” says Dr. Gearhart. “When patients improve their sleep, they often notice improvements in mood, concentration, emotional balance and overall quality of life.”

4. Sleep disorders are highly treatable
From insomnia to circadian rhythm disorders, most sleep conditions can be diagnosed and managed with the right care.
“Clinical evaluations and sleep studies allow us to pinpoint the issue,” Dr. Gearhart says. “The encouraging news is that many sleep disorders are treatable once identified.”

5. Small habits can make a big difference
Improving sleep doesn’t always require medical treatment—simple lifestyle changes can help.
“Consistency is key,” Dr. Gearhart advises. “Going to bed and waking up at the same time, regular exercise, limiting screen use before bed, and creating a restful environment can significantly improve sleep quality.”

For help getting better sleep, schedule an appointment with Dr. Alessandra Gearhart, board-certified sleep medicine physician.

OSU Pulmonology – Houston Center
717 S. Houston Ave., Suite 457, Tulsa
Phone: 918-631-8130