Ah, summer—the season of sunny days, outdoor adventures, and a refreshing change of pace. As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, most people embrace the joyous energy that accompanies this season. However, as much as we revel in the summer sun, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this time of year can also pose challenges to our sleep quality, particularly for those with sleep disorders like sleep apnea. In this blog post, we’ll explore why summer sleep disturbances occur and offer valuable tips to help you overcome them, ensuring you get the restful slumber you deserve.
Why Do I Have Trouble Sleeping During Summer?
Summertime is meant to be relaxing. However, you may not be feeling very zen if you’re not getting enough sleep! There are many reasons why you may not be getting the restful slumber you deserve, including:
- Warmer temperatures (indoors and outdoors)
- Seasonal allergies that contribute to sleep apnea
- The sun setting later in the day
- Summer vacation plans that disrupt your sleep schedule
Tips for Better Summertime Sleep
It’s incredibly important to prioritize getting enough sleep each night, especially during summer. Sufficient rest is crucial so you don’t miss out on having any fun or risk developing health problems. That said, you should consider the following to get a better night’s rest:
Stay Cool
Heat and humidity can make it hard to fall asleep. If you don’t have air conditioning in your bedroom, you need to make sure you’re doing something to keep air circulating throughout the room. You should also try to reduce how much sunlight enters the room as that can noticeably warm things up as well. Dimming the lights can help reduce the heat in the room while providing a more comfortable setting.
Swap to Breathable Materials
When summer rolls around, it’s time to ditch the heavy winter quilts for lighter and more breathable ones. Bedding options made of natural fibers will help you feel much cooler as you sleep. You can even try keeping your feet outside the covers to cool off as well!
Establish a Bedtime Routine
A consistent bedtime routine can play a crucial role in helping you fall asleep each night. It’ll be helpful to avoid disruptions around that time and limit the number of electronic devices and screens you use.
Avoid Late-Night Snacks, Tobacco, and Alcohol
Believe it or not, what you consume throughout the day can impact your sleep that evening. Cigarettes, alcohol, and even food can affect your sleeping patterns. It’s a good idea to be mindful of what you put in your body during summer!
Seek Sleep Apnea Treatment
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, you should get a sleep test to confirm the diagnosis. That way, you can get the treatment you need to get your rest back on the right track. Addressing the sleep disorder will ensure you’re able to enter deep sleep and give your body a chance to truly recharge.
About the Practice
Long Family Dental is a family-owned and operated dental practice that has helped countless patients achieve their dream smiles for more than 40 years. We go above and beyond every day to ensure our patients get the quality dental care they deserve. From routine checkups to complex restorative treatments to effective sleep apnea therapy, we’ve got everything you need in one convenient location. If you need help conquering summer sleep woes, visit our website or call (817) 760-2536.