Autumn Time Changes: Keeping Your Sleep On Track

There are some things that you can control and then there are things that will happen no matter what! When it comes to autumn’s arrival, there’s not a thing you can do about the change in temperature, daylight saving, and often your insatiable desire for comfort foods. So, what’s this have to do with your sleep disorder, you ask? Our Livonia, MI team reminds you that many factors play into your ability to fall asleep (and remain sleeping) at night that you often overlook! Let’s examine these autumn-related issues, so while you may not be able to control them, you can control how you respond to them!

Temperature Changes

Still have the same summer-weight sheets and blankets on your bed that you were so happy with throughout summer? It may be time to swap them out for something warmer (and you may want to switch from jersey to flannel pajamas!). Remember that it can take some fiddling with the thermostat, your bedding, etc., to get the temperature right. However, once you do, you will find that this is one less distraction from being able to fall asleep and allow your sleep disorder treatment to do its thing!

Daylight Saving Time

This can throw anyone for a loop! As you know, your body is on a clock and your sleep patterns follow suit. When we “fall back” in autumn and it gets dark out earlier, it can become confusing and can feel as though your sleep cycle is all messed up. You have options. First, simply try not to stress about it. Continue going to bed at the same time and remember that you will adjust! Or, feel free to set your life back with the clock, if you have that luxury, and hop into bed a bit earlier. Whatever works for you: Just remember that it’s not you, it’s the time change.

Autumn Delicacies

As the weather gets chilly, those warm drinks filled with all-things cozy seem like the obvious addition to your life. However, our team reminds you that if you’re not watching what you’re consuming, you may be taking in a significant increase in caffeine. Most coffee drinks, tea, and even some cocoa drinks are packed full of it! Remember that this can affect your sleep disorder treatment because it might be very hard to go to sleep. Simply switch to decaf!

See Us For Help With Your Sleep This Fall

If you’ve been needing help with your sleep disorder, don’t wait any longer! Come in to see us soon, so we can get your sleep back on track. James Stewart, DDS, and our team serve patients from Livonia, MI, as well as Farmington Hills, Farmington, Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Dearborn Heights, Dearborn, Garden City, Westland, Redford, and the surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.