2024-02-16 22:00:00
Adequate sleep is crucial for a healthy body and mind, and is necessary for chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and depression. Therefore, lack of sleep can cause health problems including headaches.
What is the sleep-wake cycle?
According to the “onlymyhealth” website, the circadian rhythm is an internal 24-hour clock in our brain that determines our sleep-wake cycle.
How are sleep problems related to headaches?
A study published in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Neurologic Disorders found that headaches and sleep problems are linked. Both migraines and tension-type headaches can make it difficult to sleep well, and not getting enough sleep can trigger these headaches as well.
Inside the brain there is an area called the hypothalamus, which is a small control center responsible for keeping everything in balance, from your body temperature to your sleep schedule. However, any imbalance can lead to sleep disturbances. This leads to headaches, including migraines and tension headaches.
Another important factor in the relationship between sleep and headaches is the pineal gland, which is responsible for producing melatonin, the sleep hormone, according to the Sleep Foundation. When melatonin levels drop, migraines and cluster headaches become more likely, and you may even wake up with a throbbing head.
Common causes of sleep-related headaches
There are various reasons behind headaches caused by lack of sleep
Stress and anxiety
Underlying conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, as well as irregular sleep patterns, such as waking up early
How to treat sleep-related headaches?
It starts with improving your sleep system first. It is necessary to prioritize 6-7 hours of uninterrupted sleep and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
If interrupted sleep is due to stress or anxiety, it is recommended to consult a doctor for low doses of anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants. Apart from seeking medical help, you can also resort to home remedies, such as
Eat a healthy diet
Monitor the timing of dinner and following-dinner activities, such as exercising
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, which includes going to bed and waking up at regarding the same time every day.
Sleep in a dark, quiet, and soothing environment.
Indulging in exercise during the day.
– Put away electronic devices before bed.
Avoid caffeine-rich drinks before bed.
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