The Secret to Sleeping Better During the Summer

Summertime is finally upon us, and you’ve probably got plenty of fun things planned throughout the whole season. But something else that should stay on your radar this summer is ensuring that you’re getting enough sleep. Every night, millions of Americans miss out on countless hours of sleep due to conditions such as sleep apnea. But there are also many other factors that can contribute to sleep loss, including things that are specific to the summertime! Keep reading to learn more from your sleep dentist in Albuquerque about some of these things along with some tips to help you get a better night’s sleep during the summertime.

What Can Affect the Quality of My Sleep During the Summer?

You might be surprised to hear that there are several factors that can influence the quality of your sleep, and many of them are associated with the summer season. Aside from sleep apnea (which can occur year-round anyway), there are many potential reasons for summer sleep disruption including:

• Warmer temperatures (both indoors and outdoors).
• Seasonal allergies.
• Longer days/more daylight.
• Eating later in the day.
• Sleeping materials that aren’t breathable.
• Summer vacation, jetlag, or other plans that disrupt your sleep schedule.

Tips for Getting a Better Summer Night’s Sleep

You won’t get the most out of your summer if you feel sleepy and groggy all the time! Not to mention, denying your body the rest it needs can lead to some serious health problems including fatigue, stress, hypertension, heart disease, and even diabetes. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to ensure a better night’s sleep during the summer:

• Keep your body cool – Heat and humidity can make it challenging (and miserable) to get quality rest, and some places get pretty darn hot during the summertime. If you don’t have air conditioning in your bedroom, consider using a fan to keep cool air circulating throughout the room. Also try to limit the amount of sunlight that enters the room throughout the day; it can heat a room up significantly!
• Establish a bedtime routine – Aim to get to bed around the same time every night and do your best to limit the number of distractions that occur around that time.
• Sleep on breathable materials – Consider sheets and pillows that are made of natural fibers, as they will feel much cooler to you as you sleep. Sometimes it also helps to sleep with your feet outside of the covers.
• Avoid late-night snacking, drinking, and smoking – Everything that you consume throughout the day can influence your ability to fall asleep that evening, meaning that late-night food, alcohol, and cigarettes can keep you up.
• Seek sleep apnea treatment if necessary – If you’re able to undergo a sleep test and receive a sleep apnea diagnosis, you’re eligible for treatment options including oral appliances and CPAP machines. Both can combat sleep apnea and ensure your body is able to get sufficient rest.

Summertime is meant to be enjoyed, and that becomes quite difficult if you can’t get enough sleep! Be mindful of what can influence your ability to rest and talk with your sleep dentist if you’re interested in treating your sleep apnea.

About the Author

Dr. Eric Coontz proudly serves patients and families in the Albuquerque area! Dr. Coontz received his dental doctorate from the Loyola University School of Dentistry in Chicago and has over 45 years of experience in dentistry. He is a member of several prestigious organizations including the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He is also a Diplomate of the American Sleep and Breathing Academy. His practice is pleased to offer many available services including sleep apnea treatment. If you have any questions for Dr. Coontz or would like to schedule a visit, feel free to reach out online or by phone: (505) 433-2107.