Lack of sleep can make you more than cranky. It can make you sick.

A good example of this is former President Bill Clinton, who checked into the hospital in February after experiencing chest pains. Clinton said a lack of sleep contributed to his condition.

Nearly half of those 55 and older have trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep at least once a week, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Studies have shown that those who get less than five hours of sleep a night are at higher risk for a range of medical problems.

How do you stop tossing and turning? The American Academy of Sleep Medicine says go to bed every night at the same time and make sure you avoid foods with caffeine before bedtime, including chocolate. Avoid daytime naps, no matter how drowsy you feel. And check with your doctor to make sure your insomnia is not caused by an underlying medical problem.

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