The holidays are a joyful time, but December is also one of the most common months for sleep problems. At Lung & Sleep Specialists, we see a noticeable increase in patients experiencing insomnia, worsening snoring, and untreated sleep apnea during this season.
Why Sleep Suffers in December
Holiday travel, late nights, stress, alcohol use, and disrupted routines all interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle. For patients with sleep-disordered breathing, these changes can significantly worsen symptoms.
Common Sleep Problems During the Holidays
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Loud or worsening snoring
- Daytime fatigue and brain fog
- Poor CPAP compliance while traveling
- Morning headaches or dry mouth
Why Poor Sleep Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Chronic sleep disruption is more than an inconvenience. Poor sleep quality is linked to:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease and stroke
- Weakened immune function
- Weight gain and insulin resistance
- Worsening anxiety and depression
Untreated sleep apnea places additional strain on the heart and lungs, especially during periods of stress and illness.
Tips From Our Sleep Specialists
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule whenever possible
- Limit alcohol, especially in the evening
- Bring your CPAP machine when traveling
- Avoid heavy meals close to bedtime
- Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet
When to Consider a Sleep Study
If you continue to feel tired despite adequate time in bed, or if you snore loudly, wake up gasping, or experience excessive daytime sleepiness, a sleep study may help identify an underlying sleep disorder.