What’s on your summer to-do list? Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a beach trip, or just looking forward to some relaxation and catching up on rest, prioritizing good sleep is crucial. Unfortunately, many individuals miss out on valuable sleep every night due to conditions like sleep apnea. Additionally, summertime itself introduces specific factors that can disrupt sleep. Keep reading to learn about the factors that can affect your sleep during the summer months and helpful tips to ensure you sleep well.
What Can Affect the Quality of My Sleep During the Summertime?
During the summer months, various factors can influence your sleep. Apart from year-round sleep apnea, some other potential reasons for summer sleep disruptions include:
- Disruptive sleep schedules due to summer vacation or jet lag
- Uncomfortable or non-breathable sleeping materials
- Warmer inside and outside temperatures
- More daylight entering your room
- Eating later in the day
- Seasonal allergies
- Longer days
How Can I Get a Better Summer Night’s Sleep?
Summer brings fun and relaxation, but it can also pose challenges to getting a good night’s sleep. The heat and humidity may hinder falling and staying asleep, while longer days can disrupt your regular sleep schedule. However, you can improve your summer sleep with a few helpful tips, such as:
- Avoid late-night snacking, drinking, and smoking – The foods, beverages, and cigarettes can impact your sleep. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid late-night snacking and unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive drinking to promote better sleep.
- Seek treatment for your sleep apnea – Upon receiving a sleep apnea diagnosis, you’ll find several treatment options at your disposal, ranging from oral appliances to CPAP machines.
- Establish a bedtime routine – Create a consistent bedtime for yourself. You should also reduce distractions in the hour leading up to it.
- Keep your body cool – Sleeping in hot and humid weather can be uncomfortable. If you do not have access to air conditioning, turn on a fan to circulate cool air in your bedroom.
- Sleep on breathable materials – Think about utilizing natural fiber bedding and keeping your feet uncovered while sleeping.
Being mindful of the factors that can impact your ability to fall asleep, especially during the summer, is crucial. Consult with your sleep dentist to assess your eligibility for sleep apnea treatment, and incorporate the rest of these tips to ensure you enjoy quality rest throughout the entire summer season!
About the Practice
Residents of Stephens City can count on Dr. Thomas A. Gromling for top-notch oral health care to maintain healthy, strong, and radiant smiles. With a focus on achieving both healthy and happy smiles, Dr. Gromling takes immense pride in assisting patients. When it comes to getting restful sleep during the summer, you can trust them to provide helpful tips for peaceful and refreshing rest. To learn more about their services or to schedule an appointment, feel free to contact Dr. Gromling’s office at (540) 869-4377 or visit his website.