There are multiple problems that can occur after midnight with each involving a considerable loss of sleep. The reasons vary but the problem is contained to the body not properly getting the full amount of rest needed. A few areas of focus can help increase your chances of a full sleep cycle if avoided prior to bedtime.
Drinking and Disruptions
Alcohol leads to issues outside of drinking and driving or operating under the influence. Excessive drinking can lead to migraines, drowsiness, and other unpleasant issues creating a lapse in your normal sleep cycle.
Instead of drinking caffeine or alcohol prior to bedtime, think about decaffeinated teas. Chamomile tea is the most common natural sleeping solution and serves as an anti-inflammatory adding extra comfort to your nighttime routine.
Mint teas are also popular with peppermint teas. This tea also has the added benefit of helping with any digestion or stomach pains at bedtime.
Lastly, valerian root is a natural sedative used for centuries around the world. It is also known to be a good stress relief, especially for those suffering from insomnia. Finding a good organic tea with valerian root is a smart choice before hitting her head on the pillow.
Tobacco and Withdrawal
Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling the aerosol, often referred to as vapor, which is produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. Although many are under the misconception e-cigarettes’ aerosol is water vapor, the Center of Addition states many of these particles contain varying amounts of toxic chemicals, which have been linked to cancer, as well as respiratory and heart disease.
According to the blog Vaping360, “Nicotine is a stimulant that paradoxically can increase mental alertness and have a sedative effect. It’s conceivable that if you’re tired or fatigued from vaping, it could be similar to a caffeine crash. If you find yourself getting sleepy, try lowering or increasing your nicotine strength, or even eliminating it together.”
Many fear the withdrawal symptoms are too much to handle. But with family and friends’ support, there are ways to recognize the signs and talk to a doctor to successfully transition from vaping to a vape-free healthy life.
When going through withdrawal, symptoms can last for days, weeks, and even months depending on the level of vaping you were doing. A few common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Increased hunger
- Irritability
- Depression
- Erratic heart and blood pressure
- Digestive issues
Mind After Midnight
With both tobacco products and alcoholic beverages creating causes for concern, the “Mind After Midnight” hypothesis “suggests that late-night wakefulness affects the brain, leading to changes that can make you more likely to view the world negatively, engage in harmful behaviors, and make impulsive decisions.”
The hypothesis proved that after midnight intelligent decision-making decreases as our minds are more sleep deprived. Unfortunately, suicide rates, drunk driving incidents, and homicides are more frequent after midnight and especially between 2-3 a.m.
Acknowledging that you are not your best after midnight is your best chance to make smarter choices. Working smarter to get a full night’s sleep should not be hard work when you recognize red flags that can occur.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding obstructive sleep apnea or any other sleep-related questions, feel free to contact The Alaska Sleep Clinic for further information and be on your way to getting the nightly rest you need.
