Stress and health issues behind nighttime awakenings
Waking up in the middle of the night unexpectedly is not pleasant. If it happens only occasionally, it probably doesn't signal anything serious. However, if it becomes a regular occurrence, it's worth paying attention to your body and consulting a doctor. Sometimes, it can be a symptom of a health issue.
7:31 PM EDT, November 1, 2024
Many people tend to wake up during this time. While pop culture often depicts this hour as connected with ghosts, science offers a different perspective. The real "demons" we face might be related to sleep disorders and everyday stress.
The most common causes
Falling back asleep after waking up during the night can be difficult. Often, the main culprit is a high level of cortisol, the stress hormone. Other health issues like gastroesophageal reflux, asthma, or obstructive sleep apnea can also play a role. Moreover, certain medications, such as those containing beta-carotene or some antidepressants, might contribute to waking up at night.
Sleep health expert Olivia Arezzolo highlights that modern stress-related issues, worsened by the pandemic and job market uncertainty, negatively affect sleep quality. Research shows that up to 60% of UK citizens suffer from insomnia, highlighting the scale of this problem.
Waking up at this hour is also connected to biological processes happening in the body. Around 3:00 AM, our body gets ready for a new day—melatonin production decreases, body temperature rises, and stress hormone levels increase to prepare the body.
Why do you wake up at night?
Frequent awakenings between 3:00 and 5:00 AM could be linked to health issues. Doctors warn that these might include problems with the lungs, liver, or even asthma or allergies.
Stress also affects sleep quality. It's not surprising that when we're dealing with various challenges or problems, our sleep may suffer.
If you notice a rapid heartbeat upon waking up at night, it could be a sign of potential cardiological issues that shouldn't be ignored. In such cases, consulting a doctor immediately is advisable.
