Understanding Daytime Sleepiness
Daytime sleepiness is caused by many factors. It can be due to disruption of sleep, stress or lack of sleep due to disruption of the sleep-wake cycle. Although its causes are not so well understood, other sleeping disorders including sleep apnea, depression or side effects of some drugs can also be the reason for daytime drowsiness.
The naps are quite normal, especially right after a poor night’s sleep. However, if napping happens on a daily basis or more than 30 minutes long, there could be the need to look into health and sleep patterns more closely.
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The Association of Sleepiness During Daytime with Alzheimer’s Disease
In addition, several studies identified frequent daytime sleepiness as a relationship associated with increased risk in dementia. A new 2021 study suggests that excessive napping could be an indication of early changes in brain health due to harmful proteins like beta-amyloid, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
While the association isn’t entirely understood, researchers think it’s related to an interference with the normal workings of a sleep-wake cycle in the brain. Dementia may disrupt some of the bodies’ ordinary, internal rhythms, causing people to feel more drowsy during the day.
Early Signs of Dementia You Can’t Ignore
Memory and Cognitive Changes
Forgetfulness that starts to interfere with daily life-for instance, sometimes forgetting recent conversations or appointments-may be an early signal. Trouble paying attention, following instructions, and performing familiar tasks could be a sign.
Behavior and Sleep
Changes in mood, personality, or developing increased confusion often accompany early dementia. Sleep disturbances, such as nighttime restlessness and/or daytime sleepiness, may be a sign as well.
Benefits and Risks of Afternoon Naps
When Naps Help
Short naps of 10-20 minutes improve alertness, mood, and performance. They are particularly useful for people who weren’t so lucky with the night of sleep.
When Naps May Worry
Even so, frequent or long naps may indicate an underlying condition. For instance, if you have to nap several times in a day or you experience fatigue even after getting sufficient sleep at night, then it is high time you saw your doctor.
Reducing the Risk of Dementia
Our brains must have good sleep habits which include the following. Encourage appropriate bedtime, minimize the intake of caffeine, and have a calming night-time routine. Besides reducing excessive daytime somnolence, proper sleep also improves cognitive performance in various aspects.
Engage in Mental and Physical Activities
Keeping your brain and body active is another way to lower your risk. Activities like puzzles, reading, walking, or even dancing stimulate your mind and improve circulation, promoting a healthier brain.
When to See a Doctor
If you wake up several times in the night and still feel sleepy during the day, it may be time to see a doctor, especially if you also see other symptoms like memory problems or behavioral changes. These symptoms may suggest the presence of an illness that needs to be treated.
Doctors may prescribe testing like sleep studies or cognitive tests to diagnose the root cause of your sleepiness. Early diagnosis is a key to effectively managing any potential health concerns.
