Katie Schaeffer, Senior Editor, Health

Katie is Senior Features Editor for SleepFoundation.org. She has developed and maintained evidence-based, patient-centered web content on medical laboratory testing for Testing.com and other sites.

Katie first got involved with patient education more than 14 years ago as an editor for an award-winning website dedicated to informing the public about laboratory testing. Originally launched by AACC, a global scientific and medical professional organization, the site reached over two million visitors a month.

Initially trained as a laboratory professional, Katie has extensive experience in laboratory testing and working in various medical laboratories.

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Education

Katie has a degree in microbiology from San Diego State University and is a board-certified Medical Laboratory Scientist.

A Word From Katie

What’s your biggest sleeping pain point?

I often wake up in the middle of the night because I’m hot. When that happens, I can’t turn my mind off and start thinking of everything I am worried about and need to accomplish. I try to get out of bed and read for a bit. Sometimes this works, other times I’m awake until I need to get up.

What’s your favorite sleep product right now?

I’m trying a cooling pillow right now to try to help keep me cool throughout the night. So far it is helping a bit. I might try a cooling mask next, especially during summer.

What is your nightly sleep regimen?

I usually go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. I try to watch a relaxing show on TV but turn that off at least an hour before bed. Once in bed, I’ll read a book about a half hour until I feel drowsy.

What’s your top sleep tip?

Manage the light in your bedroom. Use black out curtains to keep your bedroom dark and unplug or turn off anything that can create light like your phone. A light-blocking mask might help too if it is compatible with your sleep.