Sleep experts are shedding light on the common phenomenon of waking up in the middle of the night. According to CNN, many people experience nighttime awakenings, often around the same time each night. While these interruptions in sleep are usually brief and forgettable, experts warn that frequent awakenings could be a sign of a sleep disorder.
Dr. Brandon Peters-Mathews, a neurologist at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, explains that sleep architecture plays a role in these awakenings. Sleep architecture refers to the stages of sleep that individuals cycle through each night, with most people naturally waking up after the rapid eye movement (REM) stage.
Dr. Michelle Drerup, director of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program at the Cleveland Clinic, cautions that multiple awakenings in an hour can disrupt the sleep cycle, potentially indicating a sleep disorder. Factors like circadian rhythm and age can also influence sleep patterns, turning some individuals into night owls or early risers.
So, what should you do if you find yourself awake in the middle of the night? Experts recommend avoiding looking at the clock, getting out of bed if you can’t fall back asleep within 15 minutes, and engaging in relaxing activities like meditation or listening to music. Additionally, optimizing your sleep environment by minimizing disturbances and maintaining consistent sleep and wake times can help improve the quality of your rest.
While it’s normal to wake up during the night, persistent sleep disruptions may warrant further evaluation. By understanding the factors that contribute to nighttime awakenings and implementing healthy sleep habits, individuals can improve their overall sleep quality and well-being.