Feeling sleepy after going to bed early and also feeling tired after staying up late—what could be the reason?
Generally, feeling tired regardless of going to bed early or late may be caused by various factors such as circadian rhythm disorders, poor sleep quality, iron-deficiency anemia, neurasthenia, and cervical spondylosis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Circadian Rhythm Disorders
Circadian rhythm disorders can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, causing drowsiness during times when one should normally be alert. Even with early bedtime, individuals may still feel fatigued due to inability to enter deep sleep. Establishing a regular sleep schedule—going to bed and waking up at approximately the same time every day—is recommended.
2. Poor Sleep Quality
Poor sleep quality means prolonged periods of light sleep and reduced time in deep sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which impairs physical and mental recovery and leads to fatigue the next day. Improve the sleep environment by ensuring a comfortable mattress and pillow, and minimizing noise and light disturbances.
3. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia results from insufficient iron in the body, impairing hemoglobin synthesis and leading to cerebral hypoxia. This lack of oxygen supply to the brain can cause persistent drowsiness regardless of sleep timing. Symptoms may include pale complexion and general weakness. Under the guidance of a healthcare provider, medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous succinate tablets, or danazol capsules may be used to alleviate symptoms.
4. Neurasthenia
Neurasthenia is primarily caused by prolonged mental stress and excessive pressure, manifesting as easy mental excitation and rapid mental fatigue, often accompanied by irritability, emotional distress, sleep disturbances, and muscle tension pain. These symptoms can lead to constant drowsiness regardless of sleep schedule, and are commonly associated with insomnia and vivid dreams. Medications such as oryzanol tablets, sertraline hydrochloride tablets, or estazolam tablets may be taken as directed by a physician.
5. Cervical Spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis may result from degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs of the neck, compressing nerves or blood vessels leading to the head and causing insufficient cerebral blood flow. Reduced blood supply to the brain affects normal brain function and leads to persistent fatigue. Additional symptoms may include neck stiffness, pain, and dizziness. Treatment may include medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, indomethacin tablets, or betahistine mesylate tablets, used under medical supervision.
In addition, maintaining a regular daily routine, avoiding overexertion, and ensuring adequate rest are essential for overall well-being.