How Sleep Monitoring Apps Can Disturb A Good Night's Rest

KYW's Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Many people now have apps on their phones to help them with sleep, but according to a new report that app on your phone that measures how much REM sleep you're getting, and documents how well you snoozed last night, could be having a negative impact on your overall sleep.

According to sleep experts, the real problem may be buzzing on your nightstand. Studies have shown that using your smartphone for work at night negatively impacts your sleep and may make you less engaged at work the next day. Don't forget that the glow from your screen may play a role, too. The blue light that screens emit suppress melatonin which is the hormone that helps you sleep.

Over time, melatonin suppression can disrupt your sleep, increase your risk for obesity, and boost your risk for serious diseases including cancer. The main point is that the fewer distractions you have the better you will be.