Too Sick to Sleep? Try This!
By Brandi Goodman
Sleeping when you're sick can be a major struggle. If you're feeling far too sick and can't drift off like you need to, there are a few things you can try to make rest easier to come by. See which options work best for you.
Drink Something Warm
Warm liquids can do a lot of wonders for your scratchy throat and congested chest. Warm water with lemon and honey added is a great solution. Both of these ingredients work to soothe the throat if it's feeling sore. Tea is also ideal, but you need to make sure it's a nighttime version that aids in sleep and not something with caffeine that would keep you up.
Take a Hot Shower
A hot shower can help to open up your nasal passages and get you breathing easier. Plus, the heat can help if you're feeling cold and clammy. It should be easier to drift off after you've had a relaxing shower or even bath.
Stack Your Pillow to Keep Your Upper Body Elevated
Your upper body should be elevated if you have any hope of avoiding an overly leaking nose that keeps you up at night. Oftentimes, we notice that we feel a bit better when we're sitting up compared to when we lie down completely. More sinus pressure is experienced when your head is at the same level as the rest of your body. Stack up your pillows and keep your upper body propped up for a better chance at falling asleep soon.
Use Nasal Spray
It's difficult to get any rest when your nose is stuffy or constantly dripping. Use a nasal spray to help clear out the gunk and leave you breathing easier. Do this right before bed so you have the best chance at drifting off.
Smell Some Peppermint if You're Feeling Nauseous
Nausea is yet another thing that can keep you up at night. Peppermint can work to help quell those funny feelings bubbling up in your stomach. Smell peppermint in essential oil form when you put some in a diffuser. Even sucking on a peppermint candy before bed can help.
A regular sleep cycle is hard to achieve when you're feeling under the weather. Keep these tips in mind when you're struggling with sleep during a time of sickness. You may be better able to achieve the rest you need when you give one or more of them a try.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gold River, Calif.