Why can't I sleep at night after drinking coffee?

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Difficulty sleeping at night after drinking coffee may be caused by factors such as caffeine stimulation, individual sensitivity differences, neurasthenia, anxiety disorders, or sleep apnea syndrome. Consuming caffeine in the evening can disrupt the normal sleep cycle, leading to difficulty falling asleep, light sleep, or frequent awakenings. It is advisable to avoid drinking coffee or caffeine-containing beverages several hours before bedtime.

Generally, insomnia caused by drinking coffee at night may be due to caffeine stimulation, individual sensitivity differences, neurasthenia, anxiety disorders, sleep apnea syndrome, or other reasons. If discomfort occurs, please seek timely medical advice. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Caffeine Stimulation

Consuming caffeine at night may interfere with the normal sleep cycle, leading to difficulty falling asleep, light sleep, or frequent awakenings. Avoid drinking coffee or caffeinated beverages a few hours before bedtime.

2. Individual Sensitivity Differences

Different individuals have varying sensitivities to caffeine. Some people may be more sensitive to caffeine, and even small amounts may affect sleep quality. Understand your own sensitivity to caffeine, adjust your caffeine intake accordingly, and especially avoid consumption at night.

3. Neurasthenia

Neurasthenia may be caused by stress, excessive pressure, or overuse of the brain. Patients with neurasthenia may experience prolonged excitation of the cerebral cortex after caffeine intake, leading to dysfunction in the balance between excitation and inhibition, which can cause difficulty falling asleep, light sleep, and other symptoms. It may also be accompanied by difficulty concentrating, memory decline, and mood swings. Medications such as oryzanol tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, and calming and nourishing brain liquid may be used under a doctor's guidance to help improve sleep.

4. Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders can be triggered by factors such as trauma, stress, and medication or alcohol use. The nervous system of patients with anxiety disorders is in a state of high tension, and the stimulating effects of caffeine can worsen this condition, exacerbating sleep disturbances. Symptoms may also include restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, and rapid heartbeat. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as sertraline hydrochloride capsules, olanzapine fluoxetine capsules, or venlafaxine hydrochloride sustained-release capsules for treatment.

5. Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Sleep apnea syndrome may be related to nervous system abnormalities. The central nervous system stimulating effects of caffeine may interfere with normal respiratory regulation. In individuals already prone to sleep apnea, caffeine may increase the frequency of nighttime apnea events, affecting sleep quality and continuity. Symptoms may include snoring and waking up gasping for air during the night. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as zanamivir inhalation powder, lidocaine hydrochloride injection, or atenolol tablets.

Ensure the bedroom is quiet, dark, and well-ventilated to create a favorable sleep environment.

Related Articles

View All