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Looking for the best mattress for back pain? This guide will help you select a mattress that will help alleviate your back pain without creating other problems. Often people find a mattress that addresses lower or upper back pain only to find that they then get shoulder soreness. Below are some mattresses that should make your bed a more welcoming and relaxing place. While the right mattress will go a long way to alleviating back pain, it’s not a silver bullet. There are other health factors to consider that go beyond the limits of a good mattress. Keeping a healthy weight and stretching your body so that you are in alignment before getting to bed will help dramatically. This guide provides useful tips on how to optimize your bedroom for the best sleeping experience with the least amount of pain. What Causes Back Pain while Sleeping? Back pain is caused by your spine being out of alignment while you sleep. No matter what your sleep position your are vulnerable to back pain. According to Web MD, 80 percent of the population experiences some form of lower back pain at some time in thier lives. This is also known as nocturnal back pain. There are 3 major causes of back pain that could be contributing to poor sleep at night. Mechanical problems with the spine, the most common of which is disc degenerations. Discs act like a shock absorber between your vertebrae and can break down with age. Injuries such as a fall or car accident can sprain or fracture your spine causing your discomfort. A disease such as scoliosis or spinal stenosis which is a narrowing of the spinal column can lead to back pain. Even kidney stones, pregnancy or arthritis could cause lower back pain. Despite these common causes, sometimes the cause of your back pain cannot be determined. Best Stretched for Back Pain Before Bed Before you even get into bed you should work on loosening your muscles and get into alignment. Because our lives are mostly sedentary we are usually contorting our bodies in unnatural positions as we sit at our desks. When it comes time to lay down, our body needs to adust. Stretching out before you go to sleep will allow you to get the full benefit from your mattress. Check out these recommendations from Seasoned that you can do before bed. While you may not have time to do them every night, try and get some stretches in at least 3 nights a week and start reaping the benefits of better flexibility and longer and more productive sleep. Back Pain and Side Sleepers Back pain for side sleepers can best be addressed in 2 ways. First, make sure you have a pillow that is giving you proper support. This goes for all types of sleepers but is especially applicable to side sleepers. I have noticed that most side sleepers sleep on pillows that do not have enough loft. This means their neck is out of alignment causing other issues. Secondly, make sure that the middle of the mattress is giving your hips proper support. Check out this nice diagram from the Cleveland Clinic that illustrates this point. I have found that side sleepers need to pay extra attention to spinal alignment. In the picture below you can see that this sleeper is using a body pillow to keep from falling forward and her knees separated this keeps her from moving onto her stomach and with alignment. Back and stomach sleepers should look for firmer mattresses that don’t allow their lower back to sink too much. Conversely, if you have upper back problems it could be that your mattress is too firm. It’s a delicate balance so you need to listen to your body. There are now new coil systems on the market that can be found in many of the online brands that ensure you are getting optimal support around your hips. The quantum coil system from Legget and Platt is a perfect example. It is a zoned coils system that has firmer coils in the middle of the mattress and softer coils on the top and bottom that help balance you out over the entire mattress. The Brentwood Home Oceano mattress has this system and is one of my top picks for side sleepers with back pain because it is still a relatively soft mattress but also offers great support where it needs to. This is probably your best bet overall if you want quality, craftsmansip, value and comfort all in one. How to Shop for A Mattress for Back Pain Usually, every new mattress is going to feel better than your existing mattress. Chances are your existing mattress has worn down from years of use. I find that mattresses now start to break down after 7 years. Anything beyond that seems like bonus time. If you are searching online for a mattress or heading out to the mattress store, make sure that you understand a bit about construction. In my opinion, a dense memory foam mattress is one of the best types of mattresses to alleviate back pain. That’s because they conform so well to your body that there isn’t any part that is not supported. If you prefer a spring mattress, ask if the coil system is zoned. A zoned coil system will offer more support near your hips and lower back and allow your shoulders to sink towards the top of the mattress to keep you in alignment. While shopping in stores, take your time. There’s no pressure to buy right away. The longer you lay on the mattress the better sense you will have of how it feels in your home during the night. I also advise people to shop when they aren’t too tired. If you shop for a mattress after a long day, just about anything will feel great and it will be harder to distinguish between mattresses. Don’t Forget Your Pillow While mattresses bear the majority of the blame for back pain, pillows play a part too. Often people sleep on pillows with the wrong amount of loft. If you have broad shoulders and sleep on your side, you need a pillow with a lot of loft so that your head won’t sink to far down. An adequately sized pillow will also prevent you from wanting to sleep with your arm under the pillow which causes shoulder pain. Stomach sleepers need a thinner pillow. A thick pillow for a stomach sleeper often leads to lower back pain. The same is true for back sleepers although they can get by with a bit more loft, especially if they snore. Below are my top picks for best mattress for back pain… Best Memory Foam Mattress for Back Pain Nectar Mattress The Nectar mattress is a dense memory foam mattress that really cradles you in every position. I highly recommend this to sleepers with lower back pain. No matter what position you sleep, the Nectar will conform and support you. It is also a very affordable mattress with a great 365 night free trial period. Get the Full Nectar Mattress Review Best Spring Mattress for Back Pain Winkbeds The Winkbed skews a little firmer than most online mattresses but it gives you great support along your lower back. If you have upper back pain as well, I recommend going with the soft version over the luxury firm. This mattress sleeps cool as it is primarily a spring mattress with a Tencel cover. Get the Full Winkbeds Review Best Performance Mattress for Back Pain Layla Hybrid The Layla Hybrid is a flippable mattress with a firm and soft side. It incorporates next generations foams that are cooler and more responsive along with a quality spring system for superior support. Even sleeping on the soft side, you will still feel supported along our lower back while getting excellent pressure relief. Chances are this mattress will be your favorite. Read the Full Layla Hybrid Review Best Natural Mattress for Back Pain Avocado No other mattress that I know of has received more certifications and awards in the natural mattress category than the Avocado. It is truly in a class all its own. The quality of materials and craftsmanship is on a level all its own. In regards to back pain, they have two options, the regular and pillow-top option. The Avocado is a firmer mattress so go with the pillow top if you want to get good pressure relief. Read the full Avocado Mattress Review With all of the mattresses listed above, you get a generous trial period, so if by chance they don’t address your back pain properly, definitely return them and try another. Eventually, you will land on the right mattress to get you back to a sound sleep and refreshed mornings.

Goose Down vs Duck Down Which is better – goose down or duck down? This is a question that is often asked in the world of bedding products. It is an important question to consider when you are looking for a down comforter for your bedroom. As you may already know, goose down has a higher value when compared to duck down. However, this depends largely on the product – for example, a high-quality duck down comforter may be better than a mediocre goose down one. It also depends on your specific needs and your budget. Let us take a quick look at a few things about the goose and duck down to find out which one is a better choice for you. Is There a Major Difference Between Goose and Duck Down? This is another important question to ask when checking out down comforters for your bed. The answer is no. Both types of down provide equal insulation, and they both share the same essential structure that makes down an incredible insulator. If there is a difference between a goose down comforter and a duck down one, it would be that the duck down blanket has about 87% of the insulating power that the goose down comforter has. Goose down and duck down have the ability to maintain their warmth and loft for many years, maybe even decades, if they are well cared for. It does not matter which bird provides the feathers or down for your comforter. The secret is to find a well-made down comforter from a reputable manufacturer and take proper care of it to ensure that you always have a cozy and luxurious sleeping experience for many years. Here is a look at a few important things you should know before deciding between goose and duck down: Durability Generally speaking, regardless of fill power, there is no major difference between the durability of goose down and duck down. Part of how durable they are depends on the down’s fat and oil content – there is an inherently higher content of oil and fat in some birds. Moreover, down, whether goose or duck, is an organic product and will vary from one season to another because of several factors including weather, bird condition, feed, etc. To ensure warmth-trapping – keeping the down resilient and pliable – there needs to be a certain percentage of fat and oil. If the down is “over washed” during processing and an excessive amount of oil and fat is removed, it can become dry and brittle. This makes it easier to break down, which in turn decreases the fill power of the down. High-quality down comforters have properly processed down to optimize performance and durability, irrespective of whether it is goose or duck down. Odor As mentioned earlier, down is a natural product. Although a certain percentage of fat and oil is necessary to ensure its resilience and pliability, the presence of these substances also plays a part in the scent of the down. People with a highly acute sense of smell may notice a slight odor, even when the down is in the cleanest condition. Because there is a difference between the feeding habits of goose and duck, there may be minor differences in smell between goose and duck down. This is due to the scent in the oil content, which is necessary to make the down resilient. You should look for a down comforter made with DWR-treated down – you will find that the odor of these products is minimal. Higher Fill Powers Birds, whether goose or duck, that are older more mature tend to provide down with higher fill power. When a bird lives long, it’s down cluster becomes more developed. Furthermore, to ensure that they achieve the fill power they desire, processors sort through large down clusters, small down clusters, feathers, etc. to produce down of a certain fill power and content. Currently, the highest goose down fill power is roughly 1,000 FP. However, this is available in very limited quantities, and usually at extremely high prices. Comparatively, the highest-end and most expensive down, Eider duck down has an anecdotal rating of up to 1,200 FP. The more common fill power range for goose down and duck down is between 450 and 850 FP. As a result of improvements in the sorting process that filters out extra small down clusters and fibers, high-end 850-FP duck down has become more accessible in recent years. Color Goose and duck down are both available in white and mottled grey. If you look at things from a historical point of view, the bedding industry desires white-colored down more, which is mainly due to the fact that manufacturers commonly use white in bedding fabric and prefer to hide the presence of down. Apart from a visual difference, white and grey colored down do not have a difference in performance – meaning that one is not warmer or more durable than the other. The Conclusion Both goose and duck down can insulate equally efficiently when you take variables such as quality of fill, fill power, processing, etc. into account. Down quality has a direct connection to everything from the bird’s feed during its lifetime, to the length of its life, to the method of washing that is used in processing. When you are looking for a great down comforter, you will need to choose between, goose and duck down. It is a good idea to know what goes into the manufacturing process to make sure that you make the best choice. Keep in mind that although goose down is considered superior to duck down, there are countless high-quality duck down comforters available in today’s market. They are, more often than not, more affordable and you get the same insulation that a goose down comforter provides. Whether you choose goose or duck down, make sure that you pick the best quality down comforter for your bed. You can have a cozy, luxurious sleeping experience and make sure that you get restful, relaxing sleep every night, no matter what time of the year.

The only time you get for yourself is when you are sleeping. This is when you are free from your worries, stress, anxieties, and not to mention, exhaustion from a long day of work. Since this is the only time for you to relax, how do you make the most of it? Well, a great idea is to have a down comforter to cuddle up with. No matter what time of the year it is, a down comforter is sure to give you a relaxing sleep and make sure that you are well rested for the next day. What Makes A Down Comforter? A down comforter is made of three things: Construction: This refers to how the down comforter is made and sewn together. It is important to keep in mind that these comforters are filled with animal feathers. This may trigger allergies for some users. This is why different manufacturers have different ways to make these products. You may find that some comforters look fluffier and cozier, but they may not have been thoroughly sanitized – this is a major reason that allergic reaction may be triggered. On the other hand, you will find other comforters that look and feel cozy and luxurious, and are also hypoallergenic. It all comes down to how the manufacturer constructed the comforter. Fill: This refers to the type of feathers and down that is used in the comforter. Needless to say, this is the most important component as it determines the comforter’s performance. There are two options when it comes to the fill that comforter manufacturers use – duck down or goose down. Comforters that have a goose down fill are more expensive than those with duck down. However, you should keep in mind that comforters with duck down provide an equal amount of insulation as goose down comforters. However, goose down and feather are larger and fluffier, so comforters with this fill are cozier and more luxurious and provide better performance. Fabric: The texture, quality and feel of a comforter are determined by the fabric that it is made with. Down comforters are most commonly made with four fabrics: Damask: Outstanding quality that comes at a great price Cambric: Uses basic weaving to provide excellent value Batiste: Lightweight and provides high durability Sateen: Offers a soft feel with high sheen How to Choose the Best Down Comforter With the right comforter, you can add a special touch to your bedroom and have a soft, fluffy and luxurious bed to sleep on every night. So how do you make sure that you have the right down comforter? With a few tips in mind, you can choose the best down comforter for your bedroom: Choose the right design and size: Before you start checking out comforters, the first thing you should do is figure out the size of bedding you need. For instance, if yours is a queen-sized bed, your comforter should be a queen-sized one too. However, you could also treat yourself to a king-sized comforter to extra comfort and luxury. A larger comforter also gives you that extra length and width for coziness and warmth during the cooler months. Comforters come in different designs that you can choose from as well. For instance, you will find some comforters with box-stitch pockets that are placed for holding down and feather fillings firmly in place, while others are reversible and colorful, which is superb when you want interesting accent pieces in your bedroom. Choose the ideal weight: The best down comforter for, you might be a medium-weight quilt that can be augmented with extra blankets or an all-season type that comes with a mid-level tog rating. You may, alternatively, prefer a lightweight down comforter for late spring through early fall. You can also pick a winter-weight quilt for the colder months. To get the ultimate experience in luxurious sleeping, you might want to consider adding a featherbed to your bedding during the winter months. Choose the best filling: Lightweight comforters usually contain a mixture of duck and feather down, which provides both warmth as well as cost-effective construction. Nowadays, there are also feather fiber, down fiber and down-alternative fillings that you can choose from. Down alternatives like foam work quite well with feather fillings and create a lighter, loftier comforter. If you suffer from allergies, you should consider buying a hypoallergenic comforter – these have a special down-resistant shell fabric that keeps the feathers firmly inside the quilt, thereby reducing your overall potential for sneezing. Check out ultra-light down alternative comforters: As mentioned already, there are a few down alternative comforters that are made to feel like the real thing. If you cannot tolerate down, these blankets may be the best option for you as they still provide the luxurious, cozy experience you get from down comforters. Polyester batting or fiberfill pieces can give you the light, warm feel of goose down and feathers. Ultra-light down alternative comforters are hypoallergenic, naturally resistant to dander and dust and not to mention, conveniently washable and dryable. You will have no problem finding the best down comforter for your bed, no matter what your personal taste or style. There are numerous amazing choices out there these days. Apart from the natural goose and duck down and feather comforters, you can also choose from a wide array of down-alternative materials that are excellent for people with allergies and other problems. You do not have to compromise on comfort and luxury with a vast selection of down comforters that are available nowadays. If you are looking for a relaxing, comfortable bed to sleep in every night, you should definitely consider getting a down comforter to cozy up with. You can forget about sleepless nights when you have a fluffy, cozy comforter in your bedroom. With the best down comforter, you can make sure that you get restful sleep every night and say goodbye to stress, anxiety and fatigue. Wake up feeling refreshed each morning after a comfortable sleep with your down comforter.

What are the CPAP Alternatives for Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a common problem that affects over 18 million people around the world. More often than not, sleep apnea isn’t recognized, diagnosed, or properly treated. But when sleep apnea is detected, the go-to treatment is often the use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). This involves wearing a mask while you sleep, which supplies air continuously to keep the air passage unblocked and facilitate normal breathing. If you, or someone you know, suffer from sleep apnea, you must have used or have been recommended to try CPAP. Although a very effective treatment in dealing with sleep apnea, it often takes a lot of effort to get used to the mask. It causes claustrophobia, nightmares, dry and irritated throat, and nasal problems. Many people never get used to it, and several studies have found that more than 86 percent of sleep apnea sufferers never get comfortable with CPAP machines. While a good solution for sleep apnea, CPAP is definitely not the only treatment for the condition. With technological advances, several alternatives to CPAP have been invented. They are often minimally invasive and provide long term treatment for sleep apnea. Here are six alternative options for CPAP non-compliant people: Oral Appliances Also called Oral Appliance Therapy, dental appliances form the safest and simplest alternative to CPAP. This appliance is customized to fit the mouth of the patient and is worn only during sleep. Dental mouthpieces work like orthodontics that keep the jaw in position and enable proper breathing. This appliance is made and fitted by a dentist, so the patient, the doctor, and the dentist should work in close consultation about the device. Oral devices are portable, comfortable, and don’t have the side effects of a CPAP. They are also often cheaper than CPAP, and more convenient when traveling. Laser Surgery The piece of tissue hanging down the back of your throat is called the uvula, and most often, this tiny projection is the cause of obstructive sleep apnea. The condition can be treated by minimizing an enlarged or extended uvula with the help of laser surgery. While traditional removal of the uvula is complicated and results in a number of side effects, laser surgery takes less than 30 minutes and is generally less complicated. With the removal or minimizing of the uvula, symptoms of sleep apnea are controlled, and proper sleep is restored. Laser Tonsil Ablation When tonsils are the ones blocking the airway, reducing their size can often provide relief from sleep apnea and snoring. This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to reduce the size of the tonsils and unblock the airway. The process takes around thirty minutes and is generally performed under local anesthesia. Compared to other forms of surgical procedures to cure sleep apnea and related symptoms, laser tonsil ablation has little to no discomfort, requires no hospital stay, and does not need the tonsil to be removed. Laser tonsil ablation is a common alternative to CPAP to treat sleep apnea as well as other tonsil disorders. Positional Therapy If a patient suffers from positional sleep apnea, then positional therapy is an effective solution. People sleeping on their backs, also called the supine position, often suffer from sleep disorders because of the obstruction of the airway. Positional therapy involves wearing a device that keeps a person on their side while they are asleep. This solution works only for those who suffer from mild sleep apnea that is corrected when they sleep on their side. For more severe cases, this therapy may not be effective. Acupuncture or Acupressure In a recent study, acupuncture and acupressure were found to be more effective than CPAP. They provide relief by stimulating the muscles of the upper air passage. This is a holistic method that aims to relieve sleep apnea sufferers without medications, devices, or surgery. However, this is again a procedure that works best for mild sleep apnea. For more complex problems, a more potent treatment needs to be followed. Radiofrequency Tongue Ablation If sleep apnea and snoring are being caused by an abnormal positioning of the tongue, then radiofrequency tongue ablation is a procedure that could provide relief. This procedure often proves helpful for those with an enlarged tongue that gets in the way of airflow. This minimally invasive procedure involves shrinking and tightening the base of the tongue with the help of radiofrequency technology, and usually takes less than thirty minutes. Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can lead to severe health problems, including cardiac issues and hypertension. While CPAP is still the most widely used treatment for sleep apnea, there are alternatives that are designed for people uncomfortable with the CPAP device. Even if CPAP isn’t for you, there are other options that can provide long-term relief from the problem.

Sleep disorders have been on the rise since the past decade or so. It is hard to find people who experience healthy sleep every night or don’t resort to a sleep aid. Because sleep is vital to mental and physical health, the growing incidence of sleep disorders around the world is concerning. Sleep disorders are more common in the US than any other country; the reason why scientists and sleep experts are always trying to find out the causes behind it and possible solutions. If you are one of those people who has failed to get a good night’s sleep in a long time, you are acutely aware of how sleep disorders can strip your life of joy and peace. When you are sleep deprived sleep deprived, everything becomes harder than usual. You lose your appetite, you are unmotivated to work out, your social and personal commitments suffer, and your productivity at work keeps dropping. In fact, the American economy suffers a loss of millions of dollars every year simply because of workers not getting enough sleep. Don’t be surprised, because sleep disorders have far-reaching consequences. Sleep deficiency causes daytime sleepiness and drowsiness, causing accidents and injuries. Drowsy driving is one dangerous consequence of sleep deficiency and daytime sleepiness. It is as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Of course, no person can go without sleep for a long time, and they all reach for some kind of sleep aid at some point. However, the recent FDA warning about conventional sleep medications has led people to look for natural solutions to sleep disorders. Dangers of Sleep Medication A large number of people depend on sleep medications for a good night’s rest. Older people have usually prescribed sleep medicines because they are unable to get proper sleep any longer. However, even though in the beginning the medications work as intended, they are harmful in the long run because the user starts to get dependent on them. Most sleeping pill users are unable to sleep again without taking the medication, and the dependence only keeps growing. Most doctors do not hesitate to increase the dosage, but this only adds to the danger. The FDA has recently called out certain sleep medications for being dangerous and causing injuries and accidents. However, even without the FDA warning, most people have always known about the side effects of conventional sleep medications. They are quick to work, but the chemicals in them are harmful to health and often make sleep disorder worse. Increasing the dosage of the medicine only leads to sleeping pill abuse, some of the most common symptoms of which are: Dry mouth Dizziness Difficulty with coordination and focus Excessive daytime sleepiness Foggy memory Nightmares Itching and swelling Lightheadedness Chest pain Blurred vision or other vision changes Difficulty breathing or swallowing Hives Hoarseness of the throat Palpitations If sleep medications are continued for a long time, it can lead to other health complications and even death. These fears are not unwarranted because there are a large number of people suffering from the side effects of sleeping pills. Sleeping pills being available over the counter have also contributed to their overuse. All these fears surrounding sleeping pills have led people to look for natural alternatives. At the moment, there are two natural sleep solutions, one of them proven and the other debatable. They are melatonin and cannabidiol. Melatonin Supplements for Sleep Melatonin is the sleep hormone produced by the brain in response to the dark. When the sun begins to set, the body clock tells the brain it’s time to produce melatonin, the hormone that helps us relax, makes us feel drowsy and ultimately gets us to sleep. Melatonin is hindered by bright lights and triggered by darkness. That is the reason why sleeping in a dark room is the healthiest. Imbalances in the production of melatonin are often responsible for sleep disorders. If shunning bright lights don’t work, then a possible remedy is melatonin supplement. This is a natural sleep remedy that has recently started to be administered to insomnia patients. The reason why melatonin supplement has become so popular is that it is not known to have any side effect for it simply replicates the natural melatonin produced by the brain. The melatonin supplement remedies any imbalance and helps the hormone function normally to bring about healthy sleep. So far melatonin supplements have not been found to cause any adverse side effect. Because this hormone is already produced by the body, melatonin supplements simply aim to correct any shortage or imbalance of the hormone. However, because melatonin supplements tend to work very quickly, the dosage must be appropriate and timed right. Otherwise, the person can feel drowsy well into the next morning. CBD Oil as Sleep Aid Another popular sleep solution that is still controversial to some extent is cannabidiol. Also called CBD, this is a natural extract of the hemp plant, and has been hailed to be highly beneficial for a lot of health issues. One of the most popular uses of CBD is in treating insomnia and other sleep disorders. Although the exact connection between CBD and sleep is not yet known sleep experts believe that CBD helps induce sleep by reducing anxiety and stress. If you have stress and anxiety related issues that prevent you from falling or staying asleep at night, CBD can be used as a natural alternative to conventional sleep medications. However, if your sleep issues are caused by other health problems or hormonal imbalances, then CBD will not be effective. CBD is also highly controversial and not easily available everywhere. Unlike melatonin, CBD has not been proven to be beneficial for sleep disorders and should be consumed only after a consultation with a healthcare practitioner. Before resorting to a sleep aid, it is recommended that you try making lifestyle changes to deal with sleep disorders. If all else fails, talk to your doctor to adopt the safest possible way to induce sleep and reduce sleep deprivation.

What is Sleep Texting? Sleep texting is exactly what it sounds like. It’s is a phenomenon when people send or reply to text messages – you guessed it, in their sleep. Sleep texting has arisen and has become increasingly more common in the last decade, with the advance and the increasing prevalence of smartphones in our lives. If you’ve ever woken up to find a text you sent to a friend you have no memory of writing, you know what it is. How is it possible to text someone in your sleep? If this scenario seems wild to you, that’s a sign that texting is just not an integral part of your life as it is for many people, and your relationship with your phone is not as automatic. Sleep texting is not that different from other parasomnias – a kind of sleep disorders when a person performs movements and behaviours during their sleep that they might perform automatically during the day but that shouldn’t happen during sleep. The more known parasomnias include sleepwalking, sleep talking, sleep eating, groaning, night terrors, teeth grinding, jaw clenching – and occasionally more dangerous ones like sleep driving. All these have been around for a while, and as technology adds new dimensions and new regular behaviours to our lives, things like sleep texting (and even sleep shopping) are becoming common because texting and shopping online are just regular things we do during the day. The reason that parasomnias in general happen is that while you might be sleeping, parts of your brain may still be awake, so you’re engaging in the same behaviours you engage while you’re awake. Sleep Texting and Smartphone Use Using technology in your sleep is not entirely new either. What seems to be the first documented case of sleep emailing took place nearly 10 years ago and was reported in a Journal of Sleep Medicine. In that case, the patient reported sleep emailing after taking an increased dose of sleep medication. But in a matter of 10 years, sleep texting has turned from sensational to a pretty common phenomenon. Researchers from the Villanova University recently conducted a study surveying sleeping habits of college students. In an article published in the Journal of American College Health, they report that as much as 25% of college students surveyed report sleep texting, and the majority of them (72%) do not remember doing so afterwards. The rise of sleep texting is of course not surprising given the prevalence of phones in our lives. According to Deloitte’s 2018 Global Mobile Consumer Survey, 85% of Americans now own a smartphone, and they check it on average 52 times a day (that’s up from 47 times the year before). In addition, 60% of the respondents aged 18-to-34-year-olds admitted they’re hooked on their devices. For instance, one of the respondents in the Villanova college students study commented that she resorted to wearing mittens to bed to prevent sleep texting, because “moving the phone from being in my bed to next to the bed is not an option, I have to keep my phone with me.” Of course with many of us attached to our phones for the large part of the day and responding to each notification as soon as it arrives, it is not surprising that our phones have become an extension of ourselves like our arms and legs. As a consequence, our reaction to the sound of a text notification on our phone has become automatic: we grab the phone and immediately begin to text back. As a matter of fact, people who sleep text usually do so in response to the sound of a text notification on their phone. It’s quite rare for people to actually initiate a text conversation in their sleep although it does happen too. Also, as with sleep talking, most of the time the texts people send in their sleep are a total gibberish, but occasionally they can have logical conversations in their sleep. Of course, unlike sleep talking where you’re embarrassing yourself in front of only one or at most a couple of people who know you well, sleep texting is an opportunity to embarrass yourself in front of a much wider audience. Just imagine what would happen if sleep texting turned into sleep tweeting! Causes of Sleep Texting While the immediate danger of sleep texting is embarrassing yourself in front of your friends, relatives and co-workers, it is possibly a sign of a bigger problem, your inability to relax and get into a deep sleep. Stress, poor sleep quality and excess daytime activity are all factors that affect your sleep quality and may all be possible causes of sleep texting. The Villanova sleep-texting study specifically linked students’ sleep-texting to the quality of sleep and the level of exhaustion and stress the students had during the day. It makes sense, of course. If you’re stressed, or overly active during the day, and don’t take time to unwind, you’re less likely to be able to relax and fall into deep sleep come nighttime. Sleep deprivation is another factor that makes you more likely to sleep text. If you’re already sleep deprived, it might be harder for you to fall into deep sleep, and you’re more likely to respond to outside auditory stimuli like a phone notification. Parasomnias may also be hereditary, even if it’s not necessarily sleep texting. So if your mom used to sleepwalk, you’re more likely to exhibit parasomnias, and if you’re used to regularly text during the day and have your smartphone nearby at night, this might manifest as sleep texting. Other factors that may contribute to parasomnias in general and sleep texting in particulal are the use of certain medications, alcohol and sleep breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea. How to Prevent Sleep Texting Luckily, sleep texting is a highly preventable disorder. The first and most logical thing to do to ensure it does not happen is to not keep your phone in your bedroom, or to turn it off entirely. But that might not be possible for everybody. For instance you might have to keep your phone on and close to you because of a work commitment or a family circumstance. Or maybe you’re legitimately using an app that helps you fall asleep or tracks your sleep, or listening to a guided sleep meditation on your phone. In that case the solution is to simply put your phone somewhere you can’t reach it easily. There is no guarantee of course that you won’t get up during your sleep and walk to get your phone, but it will make it a lot less harder and therefore less likely for you to do so. Even better, put in a Do Not Disturb mode. This will allow only the most important phone calls to come in while silencing all other notifications. Remember that the effects of sleep deprivation are a lot more far reaching than a few embarrassing text messages. Mood swings, poor concentration and longer term effects such as hormonal changes, compromised immunity and poor memory are some of the longer term effects of not getting enough sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation also makes you more susceptible to health issues such as high blood pressure, risk of heart disease, depression. Make sure to get enough exercise, eat right and make sure you have the right environment in your bedroom, the right mattress for your body, the right pillow and other things to help you sleep soundly. Avoiding screen time before bed will also make a significant difference. Exposure to blue light from screens at night time suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates our sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin rises when it’s darker outside signaling our body that it’s time to relax. When melatonin production is suppressed by exposure to blue light our brains and bodies think they should be awake and alert. Finally, improve your screen habits during the day. Are you sure you really need to respond to every beep and ring of your phone as soon as the notification arrives? If you get into the habit of not responding to every text immediately, it is less likely to become an impulsive behaviour that you will engage in even when you’re sleeping. While sleep-texting in itself is not necessarily a sign of phone addiction (especially since it’s not always clear what we mean by phone addiction) it might be a sign to some people that they might want to cut back on their phone use, take back control and make it less of an impulsive behaviour. If you’re truly serious about being more conscious about your phone use and improving your overall health and wellbeing, turn your phone grayscale, delete or limit particularly addictive apps from your phone, and follow other excellent tips from Tristan Harris, the founder of the Time Well Spent movement, to take control of your relationship with your phone. By claiming back deep sleep, you will be doing your body and brain a favor that reaches far beyond avoiding a couple of embarrassing text messages.

Everyone loves a good night’s sleep in any season, and there’s nothing grosser than waking up soaked in sweat with clothes sticking to the body. The body sweats more when we sleep as a means to keep the body temperature balanced, but sometimes excessive sweating happens not because of temperature but because of internal reasons. This is called night sweat and is a common condition among a large number of people. What Are Night Sweats? It is normal to sweat more than usual in certain seasons. In summer, people experience excessive sweating when they are sleeping, and it’s nothing extraordinary or unusual. However, night sweats are different from normal sweating because they are not influenced by external factors. Someone suffering from night sweats will perspire excessively even when trying to sleep in sub-zero temperatures. Also called hyperhidrosis, night sweats can happen in any season and aren’t influenced by environmental overheating. If you experience excessive sweating in the summertime or when you’re in a warm environment, it may or may not be hyperhidrosis. However, if you get drenched in sweat in winter or in cooler temps, it is definitely a case of hyperhidrosis. Even though night sweats is a common condition affecting a large number of people, there are fairly easy things you can do to stop or prevent them. However, before ascertaining a remedy, you have to know the causes behind hyperhidrosis. What Causes Night Sweats? The factors responsible for night sweats are dependent on whether the type of hyperhidrosis, i.e., environmental or medical. You know you have hyperhidrosis if the sweating drenches your sheets and clothes, interferes with your sleep, and is not because of environmental factors like summertime or a hot bedroom. The last factor is most important because it helps you determine if the condition is environmental and can be easily remedied, or is due to a medical condition that requires treatment. For instance, night sweats and hot flushes associated with menopause are true hyperhidrosis, while excessive sweating because of restrictive or thick clothing can be easily fixed by wearing lighter clothing to bed. Once you know what is causing the night sweats, it becomes much easier to find a solution. When it comes to environmental reasons, only warm temperatures or uncomfortable clothing or bedding can cause excessive sweating. But when it comes to medical reasons, there can a million conditions causing hyperhidrosis. The latter is true night sweats while the former is just sweating too much because it’s hot. Environmental Reasons There are three factors that influence night sweats that are not because of an underlying medical condition. These are as follows: Warm or Uncomfortable Clothing or Bedding If you wear thick or uncomfortable clothing to bed in summer or sleep with several layers of bedding, it shouldn’t be a surprise if you wake up sweating. Excessive sweating at night is primarily caused because of uncomfortable bedding that gets too warm or restrictive clothing that doesn’t allow air circulation. That is the reason why sleep experts recommend sleeping either naked or in light, loose, comfortable clothing that allows the air to circulate and keep you cool. This is truer during hot summers. Your sheets should be made of cotton or linen, which are not only best for the skin but also help keep you cool on hot nights. Ditch the silk or satin sheets during summer, and stick to skin-friendly, breathable materials for a bed. This helps in thermoregulation, the process of your body maintaining a consistent temperature. Warm Bedroom Temperature Summer is the time when the indoor temperature rises too quickly. If your bedroom temperature is too high when you go to bed, it can interfere with your sleep and cause you to sweat excessively. The feeling of sweat drenching your clothes and the sheets is icky and will most certainly wake you up in the middle of the night. Use the thermostat or the air conditioner to set the room temperature between 60 and 70 degrees. Illness When you’re down with a cold or a fever, your immune system works to help in the recovery process. This involves raising the core body temperature, which causes excessive sweating when you sleep. In all three of these cases, the sweating can be easily stopped without much effort. Medical Reasons There is more than one medical reason that can cause hyperhidrosis. In women, menopause and hormonal changes are famous for causing hot flashes and night sweats. Hyperhidrosis is also common during pregnancy, or when there is a hormonal condition like hyperthyroidism. Treating the condition usually gets rid of the night sweats to some extent if not completely. Another common factor behind hyperhidrosis is obesity. Overweight people tend to sweat excessively, and that’s true even when they are trying to sleep. This is because excess weight makes it hard for the body to thermoregulate, causing night sweats. Losing weight is usually the solution to weight-related hyperhidrosis. Sleep apnea is also responsible for causing night sweats. It is one of the most common sleep disorders, in which breathing momentarily stops and then restarts, causing snoring, choking or gasping. This happens because the tissues at the back of the throat relax more than they should and block the upper airway. Since there is no permanent cure for sleep apnea, the recommended treatment option is CPAP or BIPAP therapy, where the individual is required to wear a mask connected to an air machine when they sleep. The key to relief is to stick to this treatment. Individuals who find it uncomfortable to wear the mask do not stick to the treatment, and are also at greater risk of night sweats. Other medical conditions that cause night sweats are GERD, anxiety, as well as the reaction to certain medications. It has nothing to do with environmental overheating. Treating Night Sweats The easiest way to deal with night sweats is to stay cool when you sleep. If lowering your bedroom temperature isn’t much effective, you can invest in a cooling mattress or buy a temperature regulator for your bed. Managing your medical conditions can also go a long way in keeping night sweats under control.

Sleep remains a mystery to even to the scientific community. We have been able to build spaceships and send a man to the moon, but when it comes to sleep, much of it is still a mystery. Why? Because sleep is a state of unconsciousness and we don’t yet have the ability to wake up and recount what happened while we were sleeping. Science has been able to find out a lot of things about the mechanism behind sleep over the years, but there is a lot more that needs to be understood about this nightly phenomenon. The need for sleep has also been quite a mystery. Why exactly do we need sleep? Today it is believed that we need sleep because the brain needs to recharge and store energy for the next day. But sleep came about not because of rest but because of safety. The ancient man needed to be safe from wild animals after the sun went down. With nothing else to do, they chose to go to their caves and sleep, even if they did not feel tired. A few centuries ago, when electricity had not been invented, sleep was chosen because it helped save oil and gas. Besides, there was nothing else to do after the sun went down. The duration of sleep has also changed over the years. Man did not always need 8 hours of sleep. The early man slept for as long as 12 hours with a break in between. Today, science has found that man needs 7 to 8 hours of sleep because that’s the time to brain takes to recharge for the next day completely. However, some people need more or less than that amount to function normally. Although science has been successful in interpreting much of the sleep mechanism, there is one aspect that still needs a lot more research: dreaming. And if you have ever experienced Deja Vu – the feeling of familiarity with something that’s not supposed to be familiar – it may have something to do with your dreams. Why Do We Dream? Everyone dreams, including babies and animals (if your dog howls in his sleep, he’s probably dreaming of confronting other members of his species). But even though sleep is such a common phenomenon, no one fully understands the reason behind them. The father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, had written a famous book interpreting dreams, but there’s still so much that needs to be answered. Some believe that dreams express hidden feelings and desires, while others believe that dreams can also predict the future. But despite the several advancements made by science, when it comes to decoding the mechanism of dreams , it is still a long way off. Dreams occur in the final stage of sleep, also called the REM stage. In this stage, the brain slowly begins to become active, but the body is still inactive. This is unlike what happens in previous stages when the brain is inactive, and the body works to heal and recharge. The REM stage sleep is important for cognitive functioning and memory forming. In this stage, the brain consolidates thoughts and memories, boosts productivity and concentration, and becomes alert. When REM sleep isn’t sufficient, cognitive functioning can be affected. Dreams occur in the REM stage and not in other stages. That’s because the brain becomes active in this stage, right before waking up. Besides that, the heartbeats rise, and the body temperature also starts to become normal. It is believed by scientists that a conscious part of the sleeping brain is responsible for dreams. This conscious part of the brain has cognitive, sensory and emotional occurrences, leading to dreams. Dreams are usually life-like, complete with people objects themes voices and color. These things can often have a close resemblance to waking life. But dreams can also be about unfamiliar things. Some dreams can seem real because they are very vivid. Such dreams are usually remembered for a long time. Nightmares are also dreams, but only frightening or traumatic. Deja Vu and Dreaming We have all had the feeling of Deja Vu at some point. Deja Vu (French for “already seen”) is a sense of familiarity about something unfamiliar. For instance, you go to a place for the first time but feel like you have already been there before because it feels familiar. Why does that happen? Even science doesn’t have the answer to that. However, there is a possibility that the sense of Deja Vu has something to do with dreaming. A dream plays out just like real life, full of people and objects, colors, sounds, and voices. Sometimes dreams are about things, places or people we are unfamiliar with. But dreams can also be about things and events we are familiar with. When we dream of familiar people, places or events, they are actually bits and pieces of memories that are stored in our subconscious. Deja Vu is different from a vision. A vision is when something seems familiar because you remember having seen or experienced it before. But in Deja Vu, you have no idea why something seems familiar because you don’t remember seeing or experiencing it before. The dreams that we don’t remember might be the ones that appear as Deja Vu. However, there hasn’t yet been any fundamental proof to establish why we experience Deja Vu. Is Deja Vu Precognitive? Deja Vu is often assumed to be precognitive, in that they may be capable of predicting the future. However, there is no evidence to prove that dreams or feelings of Deja Vu are precognitive. If anything, then it’s purely coincidence. But dreams are called precognitive if you experience the same thing later in real life, even though you may not recall it. There is no evidence yet to prove that dreams can predict significant future events, but when it comes to déjà Vu, it could be something that our dreams tell us from beforehand.

Not many of us usually connect our diet to our sleep quality. But the nutrition that we provide to our bodies determines the sleep quality and quantity to a great extent. There are various kinds of diets that a person can follow, in order to lose weight or stay healthy. But getting into a new diet can affect sleep. Some diets can cause insomnia while others can make you feel excessively sleepy. There are foods that are good for sleep. Not only do they keep you healthy, but also keep your sleep cycle normal. Including those foods in your diet can improve your quality of sleep. But there are certain foods that can interfere with sleep. Foods that are high in sugar or carbohydrates or processed food are the biggest enemies of sleep. It is often recommended that large, heavy meals should not be consumed close to bedtime. This is because sugar and carbohydrates take time to be broken down and digested by the body, which increases metabolism and interferes with sleep. The quality of sleep that a person enjoys is an indicator of his health. If he sleeps well without any interferences or disturbances, it indicates good health. Poor quality or quantity of sleep is linked to internal weaknesses or nutritional deficiencies. One diet that can cause insomnia in some people is the ketogenic diet. Various diets come and go, and there are several people who like to try them out, in the hopes of losing weight or becoming healthier. But before starting any new diet, no matter how beneficial to other aspects of health, its effect on sleep should be carefully studied. What Is The Ketogenic Diet? Although the keto diet has been around for a while, it has recently started to gain massive popularity because it claims to help in weight loss and fat burn. In this diet, you need to cut down on carbohydrates and increase intake of healthy fats, proteins, and vegetables low in starch. The most significant aspect of this diet is the drastic cut-down on carbohydrates. You have to consume little to no carbohydrates, with most of the energy being provided to the body by fats and proteins. The word “keto” comes from the small fuel molecules called ketones produced by the body as an alternate source of Ketones are produced by the liver when both carbs and proteins are in short supply. Carbohydrates and proteins are what convert into glucose to provide fuel for the body. But when these aren’t sufficient enough, the body uses up fat to produce ketones, which serve as fuel for the body and the brain. A keto diet is thought to be beneficial for weight loss because it helps the body burn fat rapidly. It also has other effects such as less hunger and a higher metabolism. However, there are significant side effects too, which happen when the body is in a state of ketosis. What Is Ketosis? When there is an excess of ketones in the body, it’s called ketosis. This is usually triggered by an insufficient amount of carbohydrates and proteins in the body when the metabolism is fueled entirely by fat. It also happens in diabetic patients when the blood sugar levels rise suddenly but can be managed with insulin. However, when ketosis is a result of a keto diet, there can be a number of side effects. Some of the side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, and insomnia. Sleeplessness is one of the most significant side-effects of ketosis. Even though every person’s reaction to the keto diet is different, insomnia is one of the most commonly reported symptoms. This is more noticeable when beginning the diet, as the body takes time to adjust to it. Insomnia, at first glance, may not seem as bad. But going without sufficient sleep, especially when you’re on a diet, can do more harm to your body than good. If you suffer from any sleep disorder, you must consult your doctor before going on a new diet. The Connection Between Ketosis and Insomnia There is a scientific explanation for the loss of sleep associated with ketosis. Since carbohydrates are usually the main source of energy to the body, they constantly supply the body with glucose and provide the brain amino acid L-tryptophan into the brain. This amino acid helps in the production of serotonin, a hormone that aids in relaxation, sleep, and overall wellbeing. As day turns into night, serotonin is converted into melatonin, the sleep hormone. The reason behind the insomnia is the inclusion of little to no carbs in the keto diet. As a result, there is low L-tryptophan, which hinders the production of to serotonin and melatonin. This usually happens in the initial stages of the diet, when the body is still getting used to the new system. Insomnia and inadequate sleep are one the most commonly reported symptoms of ketosis, which also helps people understand that the diet is starting to work. There may also be other reasons behind insomnia triggered by ketosis. One of them is a high metabolism and extra energy. A keto diet is supposed to fuel energy and boost metabolism, making you more active and alert. However, on the downside, it can also cause delayed sleep onset and insomnia. When you’re bursting with energy all the time, it’s hard to fall asleep. How To Prevent Insomnia Due to Ketosis Generally, insomnia or sleep difficulties caused by a keto diet go away on its own once your body gets used to the new diet. To make sure this happens quickly, you must stick to the diet religiously. However, if your sleep problems keep getting worse and if it’s related to the new diet, then it’s an indication that the diet isn’t right for you.

Many people have special needs that require something more than a regular bed. That’s when they should be given a hospital bed. People usually purchase hospital beds for home use for sick, aging, or disabled family members. They are called hospital beds because they have all the features of the beds found in a medical facility. Hospitals beds provide the same comfort right at home to those who need more than a traditional bed. The use of hospital beds has been on the rise because of the increasing number of disabled or aging people have been living at home and cared for by family members. This is done to avoid the cost of a professional caregiver or facility. Injured people also sometimes require hospital beds, especially in cases of a hip or leg fracture. Hospital beds are more expensive than a regular bed, the reason why many people choose to rent instead of buying one. But once you do not require the bed anymore, you can resell or donate it to someone who needs it. Rented hospital beds are best for those who need it for a short while. If you have a long-term requirement, purchasing a bed is more cost-effective. If you are planning to purchase a hospital bed, in this post, we help you choose the right one. Types of Hospital Beds The common feature of all hospital beds is adjustability. Based on this, a number of hospital bed types are available. Each has its own adjustment options and different features and price points. Here we discuss the most popular types of hospital beds available today. Fully-Electric Hospital Bed This type of hospital bed is completely powered electronically and usually comes with a remote. With the help of the remote control, the height of the entire bed or different parts of it can be adjusted. Most beds also have buttons on the size of the bed in case the remote doesn’t work. With the remote control, the patient themselves can adjust the bed. In case the caregivers do not want the patient to use the remote control to maneuver the bed, the remote can be stopped using, and only the buttons on the side of the bed can be used. The buttons are only accessible by someone outside of the bed. Operating a fully electric hospital bed is very easy and effortless and can be done by anyone. Since there is no effort required in maneuvering these beds, they have a higher price tag and happen to be some of the most expensive types of hospital beds. Semi-Electric Hospital Bed Many people prefer to have a manual option to operate the bed, besides a remote control or buttons. In this case, a semi-electric hospital bed works great. They work mostly like the fully electric versions but in addition have a hand crank for adjusting the height of the bed. The presence of both electric and manual options together is a plus and helps in case the electronic option fail to work for any reason. However, the manual options require more effort, and that explains the slightly lower price tag. But because they also have electronic features, they are not the cheapest. Manual hospital bed As the name suggests, this type of hospital beds do not have any electronic features and require to be manually adjusted. Although they are the cheapest available hospital beds today, they also require a lot of effort, and cannot be operated by someone who doesn’t have the physical strength. Low Hospital Bed This type of hospital beds is ideal for patients who have a risk of falling down from the bed or have mobility issues and want to be able to get in and out of bed more easily. They are completely adjustable, but their overall height is much lower than other hospital beds. They usually are designed to be within a foot of the floor. The height can only be adjusted within a much smaller range. There are no manual low hospital beds, and they are almost always fully electric. Bariatric Hospital Bed Going by the name of the bed, they are built to support heavyweight patients. They are also fully electric and require no manual effort to adjust the bed. The weight capacity of these beds is much greater than other hospital beds, and they also have a wider mattress area. Because they are larger, heavier, and sturdier, bariatric hospital beds are more expensive than other options and usually the last resort when a regular hospital bed cannot support the weight of the patient. Trendelenburg Hospital Bed These beds have become popular in recent years because of the adjustment options they offer. Whether the patient is paralyzed, has mobility issues, is injured, or in therapy, the Trendelenburg bed offers the highest number of adjustment options. Besides adjusting only the height and the foot of the bed, different parts of the bed can be individually adjusted to the maximum level. For instance, the foot can be inclined to the highest level to resemble a recliner chair, and also allow zero-gravity features with the head lower than the feet. When patients use these beds, there is no need for special pillows. However, the bed also requires a greater space and needs to be put in a larger room. Among hospital beds, the Trendelenburg beds have the maximum functionality, adjustability, and fully electric features, the reason why they are also the most expensive type of hospital bed. Are Hospital Beds Covered by Medicare? Hospital beds are included in medical supplies. Because they are highly expensive, most people rely on health or medical insurance to purchase a hospital bed. The question is: is a hospital bed covered by Medicare, the most popular type of medical insurance? Yes, Medicare does cover the purchase of hospital beds, only if you prove that you have a medical necessity that requires it. In addition, you have to be covered by Medicare Part B and also be assessed by your doctor, who must provide written documentation of your medical records and prescribe the bed for you. The supplier also has to receive the order before Medicare is billed. You qualify for a hospital bed if you: Cannot change positions on a normal bed Cannot sleep like a regular person on a normal bed Cannot sleep without the head of the bed higher than 30 degrees, because of medical conditions like breathing problems, congestive heart failure, etc. Need to use traction attached to a bed Have a completed, signed and dated Certificate of Medical Necessity by your doctor Best Hospital Beds When you’re in the market for purchasing a hospital bed, don’t be surprised if you’re flooded with options. To help make your task easier, we have narrowed down the top five hospital beds you can buy today. Invacare Full Electric Homecare Bed This is not only the bestselling hospital bed on Amazon but also one of the best fully electric ones you can buy today. The bed measures 88 inches by 36 inches, has a weight capacity of 450 pounds, comes with full or half clamp-on rails, and also has a 2-year warranty. Although it’s fully electric, there’s also a manual hand crank. The bed can accommodate a six-inch memory foam or innerspring mattress, and also includes a waterproof mattress cover for easy cleaning. The bed looks appealing and has a wood finish. Shop Invacare LUCID L300 Adjustable Bed Base The Lucid Adjustable bed is not a hospital bed, per se, but it can definitely be put to such use. The only thing missing is wheels and rails. If that isn’t an issue, then this bed measures 37.5 inches by 79.5 inches, has a 750 pounds weight capacity, as well as a 10-year warranty. Plus, it looks nothing like a hospital bed and comes in a few different sizes. Aside from being one of the cheapest adjustable beds, the Lucid bed also has a USB charging station on either side, a remote that also functions like a flashlight and the capability to set default positions. However, rails and mattresses need to be purchased separately. Shop Lucid Drive Medical Full Electric Ultra-Light Plus Hospital Bed This is a fully electric bed with full or half-rails, which measures 88 inches by 36 inches, with 450-pound weight capacity and a one-year warranty. The height of the bed lowers between up to four inches off the ground, and the remote and battery backup makes sure the bed remains fully functional even during a power outage. The bed mimics the look a traditional bed with scratch-resistant wood-grain panels and a tall headboard. The head and foot boards are removable. Shop Drive Medical Lumex Patriot Semi-Electric Homecare Bed This is a semi-electric bed that comes with both manual and electronic adjustment options. It measures 36 inches by 87 inches, has a 450-pound weight capacity and a 2-year warranty. On the downside the bed doesn’t have rails, so they have to be purchased separately. The bed can be adjusted within 15 and 24 inches, and the head and foot can be adjusted individually. The bed also has a 9-volt battery backup for emergency use during a power failure. Shop Lumex Patriot Drive Medical 15300BV-PKG Full Electric Bariatric Hospital Bed This is the best fully electric bariatric bed for heavier patients. It has a heavy-duty steel build and a wider surface of 42 inches, supporting patients of up to 600 pounds. The bed comes with a mattress, and one set of rails includes a remote as well as a hand crank. It is easy to install without the need for tools. The bed blends with home décor thanks to its wood grain finish.

For the longest time, we have depended on the mattress to solve most of our sleep problems. But even the most expensive mattress begins to sink and gets dips within the first five years. The more the mattress sags, the lower is the support provided to the body. No matter what kind of mattress you buy, you cannot keep it from sagging. Sooner or later, it is going to dip and sag, leaving you with an improper sleep position. This is one of the reasons why several people change their mattress so often. A sagging mattress has little firmness and fails to provide your body with the support it needs for proper proper sleep. When you keep sleeping on this worn-out mattress, you develop soreness and aches and pains in various parts of your body. You believe that you are suffering from some ailment when the actual culprit is your mattress. Unfortunately, mattresses will sag. There’s not much to do about it. But instead of relying only on a mattress for proper sleep, why not choose another solution for quality rest? That’s right; we are talking about a body pillow. It is the next best alternative to a mattress for adding in a good night’s sleep. Whether you suffer from medical conditions that make it hard for you to sleep at night or sleep on a mattress that does not provide enough support, a body pillow can make sleeping a more comfortable and relaxing experience. What Is A Body Pillow? A pillow that’s narrow and long and runs the entire length of the body is called a body pillow. Initially, body pillows were mostly used by pregnant women for extra support during sleep. But these pillows have gained massive popularity in recent years because they provide support to the whole body when the mattress fails to do so. A lot of people prefer to sleep with a cuddle pillow. But these pillows are usually small and do not provide support to the entire body. A body pillow is soft and comfortable but firm enough to support the top leg (for side sleepers), torso, back, and arms throughout the night. Body pillows are counted among the best orthopedic pillows and are widely available online, at bedding stores, and What Is Body Pillows Made Of? A body pillow is no different than a regular pillow and can be made of a variety of materials. Some of the materials that a body pillow is made of are: Shredded latex: Body pillows with an outer cotton casing and a shredded latex fill are bouncy and conform to the shape of your body. Shredded latex body pillows are great for those who suffer from neck and shoulder pain because it’s responsive and keeps the spine aligned while hugging the body. Natural latex is hypoallergenic and can be conveniently used by those with allergies. Memory Foam: Body pillows are also made with memory foam, another hypoallergenic material. Memory foam is breathable and comfortable and also regulates temperature. The firmness of the pillow can also be adjusted according to preference. Wool: If you want a body pillow that keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter, then choose wool. Because wool is a natural insulator, it keeps you comfortable in all seasons. Wool body pillows are comfortable to sleep with, and also keep the back and spine aligned, regardless of your sleep position. Feather/Down: Although body pillows made of feather or down are soft, they aren’t capable of providing the best support. Besides, feather or down can cause allergies, which doesn’t make them suitable for all. Wool-Latex Blend: When wool and latex are combined to make a body pillow, it becomes soft and supportive at the same time. The combination of shredded latex and wool gives the pillow a firmer feel, while the wool functions like a natural insulator and promotes breath-ability and circulation. The latex makes the pillow responsive while keeping your spine aligned and helping relieve pressure points. Kapok: Cotton makes for some of the most breathable and comfortable body pillows. Kapok cotton is used to make organic body pillows, which have the same fluffiness of down without the feathers. Cotton pillows keep you cool on hot nights, providing proper support for side sleepers, spine alignment, and pressure relief. Benefits of A Body Pillow Pillows are used by everyone for comfort. But pillows are also great at providing support to the body. These days, there are orthopedic pillows, which are ergonomically designed to provide support to various parts of the body. There are pillows for the legs, for the back and spine, and for the neck and shoulders. Body pillows combine the support of all pillows into one. If you have a body pillow, you can use it for supporting any part of the body or the entire body. Some benefits of the body pillow are: Spinal Alignment: Keeping the spine aligned is of utmost importance when sleeping. When we sleep, we often aren’t aware of our position. This leads to soreness when we wake up. A body pillow keeps the sleeper supported no matter which position he sleeps in, improving spinal alignment and keeping aches and pains away. Pressure Relief: When we are in a supine position, our body takes the maximum pressure. This is heightened if the mattress isn’t supportive enough. A body pillow provides extra support, relieving the pressure and preventing soreness. Improved Circulation: When your sleep position isn’t proper, your blood circulation is also poor. A body pillow keeps you supported and comfortable, keeping your sleeping position right and improving circulation. Diminished Snoring: A body pillow can be used to elevate the upper part of the body, to help with snoring and sleep apnea. Body pillows designed for sleep apnea makes sure that the sleeper remains in a side sleeping position all through the night, helping relieve symptoms of sleep apnea like obstructed breathing, snoring, coughing, and dry mouth. Body pillows are available at all bedding stores or online marketplaces. Quality body pillows last long and provide ample support for the whole body.

Is it that time of the year that you purchase new sheets? Is your old set too stained, ripped or just worn out and need a change? Most of us splurge on expensive pillows and comforters but often overlook bed sheets. When it comes to bedding, durability and quality are of paramount importance, after all, we spend nearly one-third of our lives between our sheets! Cotton and Microfiber are two popular choices when it comes to bed sheets. It is important to remember that they are very different materials, and the one for you depends on several factors. These bedding materials, each offer a different level of breathability and feel. They also differ in drying time, durability, and cost. You will need to take all these factors into account while picking the right bedding for yourself and your family. They are both very good choices, and each offers a bunch of benefits. That said, you get what you pay for. And while many people prefer cotton, premium quality microfiber sheets do not tear easily and nor does the color turn dull with repeated washing. Nowadays, there are more and more bed sheets on the shelves made from microfibers. Microfiber sheets have become rather popular, but are they the right choice for you? In this article, we compare cotton sheets and microfiber sheers to see what all the fuss is about. Feel – Many prioritize feel over durability. If the feel of your sheets is an important deciding factor for you, you are sure to love microfiber sheers. These sheets are perfect for those who love a silky feel. If your kids or partner moves around a lot at night, these sheets will let them slip and slide without becoming a tangled mess. While these sheets do not offer the crisp feel of cotton, you will love crawling into these sheets as they feel soft against the skin. On the contrary, if you are someone who prefers crisp linen, cotton is your go-to choice. Warmth – Microfiber is an excellent choice for those who tend to get cold easily as it retains your body’s natural heat. If you tend to kick the blankets at night or are prone to night sweats, cotton is a better choice for you. Since cotton is a natural fiber, it is more breathable and keeps you cooler. It also wicks moisture better making it an ideal choice if you sweat a lot during sleep. On the contrary, microfiber is a lot better at resisting stains which makes maintenance a breeze. However, remember that though microfiber sheets do resist stains better than cotton can, it can be a herculean task to get them out once they find their way in. If you accidentally spill a cup of coffee on your microfiber sheet, the cleanup is time sensitive. Unlike its natural cousin, if you wait too long to attend to the stain, it will set! Durability of Microfiber Sheets– Low-quality sheets, be it microfiber or cotton will last you only a couple of washes. While cotton sheets are subject to pilling, poor quality microfiber sheets are likely to tear in just a few weeks. High-end microfiber and cotton sheets are both quite durable. However, cotton doesn’t hold dye as well as microfiber and hence begins to fade over time. Microfiber is more resilient and is likely to remain bright and vibrant after repeated trips to the laundry. Most users will agree that cotton wears over time, thinning and piling before becoming entirely useless. Microfibers tend to deteriorate all at once – either ripping or tearing when you least expect it. Airflow – Premium quality sheets made from both cotton and microfiber are woven in a percale which is touted to be the best weave to facilitate good air flow. When comparing the percale woven microfiber to percale cotton sheets, the latter has more weight and thickness but does boast of better air flow. Microfiber sheets, on the contrary, have a thin and light feeling and yet manage to trap air within it. Cost – Whether you pick cotton or microfiber – the higher the thread count, the more expensive will the sheet be. A higher denier count means the thicker the fibers will be. The Denier rating affects the cost of a microfiber sheet just as the thread count affects the cost of cotton sheet. However, when compared to one another, cotton is a lot more expensive than microfiber since microfiber is man-made. If you are on a budget or have many beds to make, microfiber is hands down the best choice for you. Maintenance – Cotton sheets are not just more expensive too but also are more expensive to own. They are thicker and take longer to dry when compared to sheets made from microfiber. Cotton sheets can be easily washed and dried in the comfort of your home. Some of them may shrink after the first wash, but they do get softer the more often you wash them. Microfiber sheets can also be machine laundered at home and tend to shrink after the first wash much like cotton sheets. If you wash your sheets regularly, you may spend a lot more at the laundromat if you own cotton sheets. Microfiber sheets are perfect if you do not have much space to hang your sheets outside to dry and are on a tight budget and wish to reduce your laundry expensive. All in all, there are pros and cons to each of these sheets. Microfiber is a great option for people with allergies, but in the end, it all does come down to your personal preference. If you are convinced that microfiber is a better choice for you, you may consider investing in the Mezzati Luxury Bed Sheet Set. Why buy Mezzati Luxury Bed Sheet Set? The Mezzati Luxury Bed Sheet Set is one of the most affordable yet premium quality bed sheets on the market. It is available in sizes ranging from Twin to California King. The set contains 1 flat sheet, 1 fitted sheet, and 2 standard size pillowcases. All pieces in the set are hypoallergenic and made from premium quality brushed microfiber. Not only are they wrinkle and fade resistant, but also have a soft silky feel to them. These breathable sheets are ideal for any room and are also resistant to dust mites. The pillowcases come with classy embroidery that renders an elegant touch to them Easy to care for and available in attractive colors, this bed sheet set is meant for those who love luxury!

It happens to the best of us – we have an early start the next day but are unable to fall asleep. We lie in bed, staring at the ceiling, and listening to the ticking clock as the night refuses to end. For some people, it happens every day, and for others, it happens when they are too tired or stressed, and their brains simply won’t shut up. The most interesting – and frustrating -thing about not being able to fall asleep is that the more you think about it, the harder it is for sleep to come. Does that mean you have a sleep disorder? Yes and no. Some people have trouble falling asleep when they have a lot on their minds or when they are too stressed or excited. However, if this is a regular occurrence without any external cause, you probably have sleep-onset insomnia. This is a condition when the person is unable to fall asleep when he is supposed to. Sleep onset insomnia is also sometimes called delayed sleep disorder and can be a common occurrence with some people. When you are unable to fall asleep at the right time, you get late in the morning and remain drowsy the rest of the day. The hours lost at night result in sleep deficiency and excessive daytime sleepiness. It is no surprise that sleep disorders are on the rise around the world, and affecting the global economy because of lost productivity. Besides, sleep deficiency and excessive daytime sleepiness cause accidents and injuries and also lead to greater health problems later in life. Why You Can’t Fall Asleep? When we go to bed, we want to fall asleep as quickly as possible. Everyone loves a good night’s rest because it makes them feel fresh and alert and helps them achieve more throughout the day. But a lot of reasons contribute to sleep onset insomnia or simply the inability to fall asleep. This can either happen on a regular basis or once in a while, but it is frustrating nevertheless. Stress and anxiety are usually the two most important factors that interfere with normal sleep. When there is a lot on your mind, sleep can be elusive. Until your brain shuts off, it is hard to fall asleep. Consuming caffeine and alcohol before bed can also interfere with sleep. Medical conditions and medications also cause sleep problems. However, sometimes every person finds it hard to fall asleep, even if they sleep without any issues on other nights. This is often because of mental exertion, stress, anxiety or the wrong foods. 10 Tips to Fall Asleep Faster If you do not have a medical problem and are unable to fall asleep simply because of external factors, there are things you can do to make sleep come faster. The following tips are meant to help you get started on a healthy sleep routine that makes falling asleep and waking up the next morning equally easy. Go to Bed Only When You Are Sleepy Just because it’s time for bed doesn’t mean you should be lying in bed when you aren’t sleepy. Make it a point to go to bed only when you feel sleepy. This will help the brain associate the bed with sleep and nothing else. Maintain A Sleep Routine Once you get home from work, make sure to wind down with a relaxing sleep routine. From having a relaxing drink to taking a warm bath to listening to soothing music, it all helps your brain shut down and get into sleep mode. Watch or Read Something Boring That’s right if you must read or watch TV in bed, make sure it’s something boring. There’s even a channel on YouTube called Napflix that plays boring videos to help you fall asleep. Avoid watching horror movies or the 11 pm news or anything that excites you. Don’t Look at The Clock When you’re lying in bed unable to sleep, your eyes keep going to the bedside clock. Looking at the time every few seconds makes the night pass slower than usual. To avoid this, either remove the clock from the room or turn it backward. When you cannot see the time, you fret less about being unable to fall asleep. Adjust the Temperature Regardless of the season, if your bedroom doesn’t have the ideal temperature, it can be hard to fall asleep. If it’s too cold, turn the thermostat up. If it’s too hot, turn on the air conditioner. If you want your room warm even in summer and if it’s something that helps you sleep better, don’t be shy about turning up the thermostat when everyone else is using the AC. Keep Warm It isn’t uncommon to find people who have chilly hands and feet throughout the year, especially when they go to bed. If this is you and it keeps you from falling asleep at night, try warming up your feet. Either wear socks to bed or use an additional blanket or soak your feet in warm water before hitting the sack. Have Comfortable Bedding Not many people want to invest in comfortable bedding because they think it’s a waste of money. What they don’t realize is that bedding is crucial to sleep quality. When you have attractive and comfortable bedding, it makes sleep time more appealing and makes you look forward to going to bed. Try Deep Breathing If it’s stress and anxiety keeping you from falling asleep, practice deep breathing while you’re lying in bed. Simply breathe through your nose, making sure it’s your belly that swells and not your chest and exhale from your mouth. Keep doing this until you doze off. Have Sex Whether you are coupled up or single, sex is powerful enough to help you relax because it releases the feel-good hormone called oxytocin. That’s the reason why bedtime is regarded as the best time to have sex because it helps you get relaxed and sound sleep afterward. Avoid Heavy Meals Before Bed What you eat for dinner often has a big impact on your sleep quality. If you have a heavy meal close to bedtime, your digestive system will work throughout the night, preventing your brain and body from relaxing and falling asleep. If you must eat close to bedtime, keep it light. A heavy meal for dinner should be consumed within 6 in the evening, not later. When to Seek Medical Help for Sleep-Onset Insomnia? If all these lifestyle changes do not resolve your sleep-onset insomnia, you can seek medical help. However, it is recommended that you try every means in the book before taking the help of sleep supplements or medications.

How does lack of sleep effects your brain in short term? Likewise, what happens to our brains when we don’t get adequate sleep for a prolonged period? Everybody knows that sleep is essential for our bodies and brains to function at their best. Otherwise, why would we be spending one third of our lives doing it? Chronic sleep deprivation puts us at a higher risk of various disorders and long term health conditions such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, to name just a few. It has also been amply demonstrated that the lack of sleep has a negative affect on our cognitive performance. At the cognitive level, the lack of sleep impairs our ability to focus, make judgements, consolidate information and learn new things. In the words of Dr Michael Breus, The Sleep Doctor, “It’s difficult to identify a cognitive skill that isn’t affected by sleep, and compromised by sleep deprivation.” Yet, while the effect of sleep and the lack of it on our cognitive performance is very well documented, much less is still known about how exactly sleep affects the brain on the cellular level. However, as brain science rapidly advances, more and more studies appear that begin to fill that gap. Here are four of the most prominent studies of recent years and their findings that looked closely at our sleep deprived brains. Sleep Allows Your Brain Cells To Repair Themselves A study published earlier this year in Nature Communications found that sleep is essential for the brain’s ability to repair itself. More specifically, scientists found that during sleep essential DNA repair processes take place in the brain. In the course of the study, the researchers from Bar-Ilan University observed zebrafish, species that are characterized by having transparent heads. With the use of a powerful microscope, the researchers were able to observe the brain of the zebrafish during sleeping and waking, and took time-lapsed images of individual neurons. They were then able to see that during sleep the process of DNA repair kicked off in their brains, reversing the DNA damage accumulated during the day. According to the researchers, human brain cells also regularly accumulate DNA damage not only from exposure to radiation and other undesirable conditions but also as a result of the normal brain activity. Sleep allows for these cells to be repaired. One of the study’s authors, Professor Lior Applebaum, explained why this complicated process takes place while we sleep, by comparing it to repairing potholes in the road. Speaking to Independent, he said: “Roads accumulate wear and tear, especially during daytime rush hours, and it is most convenient and efficient to fix them at night, when there is light traffic.” The researchers think that this finding might explain the essential role of sleep for all animals with neural system including humans. Sleep Deprivation Kills Your Brain Cells In a study that was published in 2014 in the Journal of Neuroscience researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine made an alarming discovery that lack of sleep can result in irreversible loss of brain neurons. The study was conducted on mice, whose brain is known to be surprisingly similar to the human brain. The mice were put on a schedule similar to the one that is used by people who work night shifts or long hours. In each 24 hour period, the mice got only 4 to 5 hours of sleep. The results were astounding. After just three day of this schedule, the sleep-deprived mice lost 25% of brain cells in part of the brain stem, the damage that seemed to be irreversible. According to the study’s authors, because of the similarity between the brains of mice and humans, it is very likely that the human brain suffers from the same loss of neurons when deprived of adequate sleep. This is something that researchers planned to further investigate by conducting autopsies of shift workers. Sleep Helps Brain ‘Detox’ Another study published in Science around the same time, found that during sleep a sort of detox process takes place in your brain, as it gets rid of harmful waste products, including some that have been linked to Alzheimer’s and dementia. The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) who used high-tech imaging to look into the brains of mice and found that their brains behaved very differently when awake and asleep. Specifically, the waste removal process happened ten times faster when the mice were sleeping, flushing out among other things the toxic protein amyloid-beta that is associated with Alzheimer’s. The clean up process observed by the researchers happens with the help of the cerebrospinal fluid that flows through the spaces between neurons flushing waste into the circulatory system. During sleep, the researchers found, brain cells contract, leaving more space for the cerebrospinal fluid to do its job a lot more effectively. Sleep Enables Brain Cells to Communicate Effectively In a fourth study on brain and sleep published recently in Nature Medicine, researchers found neurological explanation to the mental sluggishness that is so familiar to any of us who’ve ever had to take an exam, drive a car or perform any other cognitively demanding activity while sleep deprived. Specifically, the study authors found that lack of sleep severely impairs the ability of brain cells to communicate effectively. In the study, 12 participants who were preparing to undergo surgery for epilepsy (unrelated to the study) had electrodes implanted into their brains and were asked to stay up the entire night. Several times throughout the night, researchers asked them to categorize images of faces, places and animals as fast as possible. They noticed that as people got drowsier, their reactions got slower. The researchers monitored the brain activity at the same time, paying particular attention to neurons in the temporal lobe, which regulates visual perception and memory. They were able to see that the slowed down response time was due to the less effective communication between their brain cells. One of the study’s authors, Dr. Itzhak Fried, a professor of neurosurgery at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) explained in a statement: “We discovered that starving the body of sleep also robs neurons of the ability to function properly. This paves the way for cognitive lapses in how we perceive and react to the world around us.” This of course has direct consequences in everyday activities such as driving, and thus can have a fatal affect. “Severe fatigue exerts a similar influence on the brain to drinking too much,” Fried said. “Yet no legal or medical standards exist for identifying overtired drivers on the road the same way we target drunk drivers.”

It’s your best friend’s birthday, and you finally decide to head to the new Italian restaurant that you had been eyeing for a long time. You dine with mindless abandon– from garlic pasta, spicy sausage, homemade tomato sauce to tons of wine. When you return home fully sated, you have only one thing on your mind– long, deep, restful sleep. But the moment you lie down in bed, it hits you like a train. What? Acid reflux. We have been in such a situation many, many times, when we have gobbled down food and washed down alcohol like there’s no tomorrow, only to stay awake all night with a tummy ache, discomfort, and heartburn. Acid reflux is extremely common, and that’s mostly because of our eating habits. Of course, there are people with weak digestive systems who are more prone to acid reflux, but it almost always happens because of the things we eat or drink. Among the many reasons that can disrupt sleep at night, there is acid reflux. Anyone who has ever experienced acid reflux will be acutely aware of how difficult it makes sleep. You keep tossing and turning, drinking water, pacing up and down the room, downing digestives in hopes of making it better, but it isn’t easy to get rid of. The result is that the next morning you aren’t just sleepy, but also not feeling your best. All because of the birthday dinner that you so enjoyed. Acid reflux can be prevented, but there are times it happens suddenly. Don’t be surprised if you get acidity even without eating a heavy Italian meal for dinner. There are various reasons why acid reflux happens, but no matter why it happens, it always makes falling asleep an impossible task. Because acid reflux is so common, a number of manufacturers have come up with a special pillow that are supposed to help with acid reflux symptoms and make it easier to fall asleep. With normal pillows, you keep stacking then but don’t get the support that you need to ease the heartburn. That’s why these special pillows are intended to help you sleep even when you have acid reflux symptoms. What Is Acid Reflux? Before we go into details about the pillows made for acid reflux, let’s first discuss what acid reflux is and why it happens. Although we know it by many names – acidity, indigestion, dyspepsia – it’s the same thing – gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The condition is characterized by a burning sensation and discomfort located in the throat, chest or stomach. Sometimes it also leaves a sour taste in the mouth, besides nausea, bloating, flatulence and belching. With all these symptoms it’s no wonder that acid reflux makes it difficult to fall asleep. What Exactly Is the Cause of Acid Reflux? Acid reflux is caused by hiatal hernia, a condition in which a part of the stomach pushes up towards the chest. This is the cause of acid reflux, when the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter push above the diaphragm. The diaphragm muscle is responsible for helping keep acid in our stomach. When a part of the stomach pushes up, and above the diaphragm, the acid moves up into the esophagus. The muscles of the diaphragm are supposed to be taut, keeping the opening leading from the stomach to the esophagus closed. During eating or drinking, these muscles relax to allow the food to pass to the stomach, and then they tighten again. In people with GERD, the diaphragm muscles are weak, and they don’t relax when they should. This prevents the esophageal muscles from closing completely and allows stomach contents to push back up the throat. This is what causes indigestion, bloating, heartburn and discomfort. Acid reflux is more common than any other condition. About 60 percent of the American population experiences acid reflux every year, with more than half of them getting weekly symptoms. Acid reflux clearly needs more attention than just popping digestive supplements. There are several factors that cause acid reflux. Some of the most factors are: Eating too close to bedtime Consuming acid triggering foods, such as alcohol, spicy or fatty foods, and caffeine Smoking Obesity Wearing tight clothing to bed As we realize, most of the factors that cause acid reflux are manageable. But since acid reflux mostly happens at night during bedtime, it affects sleep more than anything else. This is why the things we consume close to bedtime have a maximum effect on our digestive system. Do Wedge Pillows Work for Acid Reflux? There are quite a few treatments and prevention options for acid reflux. Taking antacids prescription medications and surgery are some of the means for those who experience regular acid reflux symptoms. However, none of these offer any immediate improvement and also have an animal of side effects. Popping an antacid when you have acid reflux during bedtime can offer relief but take a few hours to work. So until then, you have to keep tossing and turning or pacing around your room. There is however a quick and easy relief option when you experience acid reflux at night, and that is by elevating upper portion of your body while you are lying down in bed. The elevation is proven to be one of the quickest solutions for acid reflux because it prevents stomach contents from coming up to the throat through the esophagus. Several studies have found the usefulness of elevating your head or the upper portion of your body to get immediate relief from acid reflux symptoms. There are quite a few ways to elevate your head while you lay down, including stacking up the pillows and elevating the head of the bed. However, if you elevate your head simply by stacking a few pillows, you are creating excessive strain on your neck and spine, as well as creating pressure on your abdomen and aggravating acid reflux symptoms. Unfortunately, that is the way most people are used to elevating their head, but it isn’t of much use. This is when you should use wedge pillows that have been specially designed to keep the head elevated while supporting the rest of the body. While wedge pillows have a number of different uses, they are mostly used for elevating certain parts of the body such as the head the shoulders the back or the legs. As the name suggests, these pillows are shaped like a wedge and are a little firmer than regular pillows, which allows them to provide better support. Wedge pillows are also used for elevating the head for people who snore or have sleep apnea or need support during pregnancy. Wedge pillows are a simple, affordable, and risk-free solution to treat nighttime GERD quickly. It won’t make your symptoms disappear but will make sleeping at night a lot easier. It is also far safer than popping pills or undergoing surgery. Wedge pillows are available online and at major bedding stores. 5 Best Wedge Pillows for Acid Reflux? Wedge pillows are primarily manufactured for acid reflux relief. They are rising in popularity, and various manufacturers have started to bring out their own versions of the wedge pillow. But remember that there is a difference between ordinary wedge pillows and those that have been specifically designed for acid reflux relief. There are various cheap alternatives to wedge pillows available, but they are not capable of providing the support that therapeutic pillows do. That is why when purchasing a wedge pillow make sure it is meant for therapeutic use. Here we look at the top 5 wedge pillows capable of providing elevation and support. MedCline Wedge and Body Pillow Reflux Relief System This pillow is the result of a collaboration between Cleveland Clinic and medical device company Amenity Health. After Cleveland Clinic conducted a research to find if sleeping on the left side could improve symptoms of acid reflux, it collaborated with Amenity Health to create this system that contains a wedge pillow as well as a body pillow, designed to keep sleepers on the left side throughout the night while keeping their head elevated. This is one of those systems that prevent the sleeper from sliding down from the wedge pillow while providing support to the entire body with the help of the body pillow. The dual component system has a patented design to create an elevated and side sleeping position for relief from acid reflux. The system can also be used for snoring and sleep apnea. Because you aren’t going to slide down this pillow, you remain in the right position all night long and get maximum relief. If you aren’t naturally a side sleeper, then the patented arm pocket of the Advanced Positioning Wedge not only prevents you from sliding down the pillow but also prevents any pressure on arms and shoulders. The body pillow prevents you from rolling on to your back, and also allows you to keep your knees tucked to take the pressure off the lower back. The pillow can also be washed. Shop the Medcline Pillow FitPlus Premium Wedge Pillow If you are interested in a doctor recommended wedge pillow for acid reflux, snoring, sleep apnea, and CPAP devices, then consider FitPlus Premium. This pillow has an underlying polyurethane foam wedge with a 1.5-inch layer of memory foam on top to provide you with comfort as well as support. The pillow has been designed in such a way that it keeps your torso elevated and supported throughout the night in case of acid reflux congestion snoring sleep apnea and any other condition that requires elevation. The pillow has a gentle elevation that is meant to provide cervical alignment and support to the torso while providing an inclination of 7.5 inches. Aside from relief with sleep apnea acid reflux and congestion, this wedge pillow can also be used for elevation doing the reading, watching television and working. It has a soft cover that is washable and easy to maintain. You may also use this pillow for leg elevation or for inclining any part of the body. Design for both back and side sleepers, the highlight of this pillow is the cushioning that the memory foam layer provides. However, some customers have complained that the pillow is too high and a little too firm to be comfortable. Shop the Bed Wedg Fit Plus Wedge Pillow Medslant Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow A common complaint about wedge pillows is that they are too small or too narrow and do not offer enough room the spread or move about without sliding off. Most wedge pillows are the same size as a regular pillow designed only for the head and neck. However, wedge pillows are also meant to support and incline the torso, which isn’t possible if the size of the pillow is small. Even if a small wedge pillow is capable of providing the sleeper with enough inclination and support, it’s easy to slide off during the night because there is not enough room to move about. This is where the MedSlant Wedge Pillow is a winner. Not only is this pillow longer than usual but is also 28 inches wide which is half the size of a queen bed. Although this pillow elevates the torso up to 7 inches, the gradual slope does not make the incline too steep. Whether you are a back sleeper side sleeper or a combination sleeper who likes to move about during the night, this wedge pillow fits a number of different requirements. Made from a soy, polyurethane foam, it has a cushion of memory foam but also with a firm foundation layer underneath, with zero off-gassing. The zippered cover made of microfiber is easy to take off and wash and allows more breathability and airflow to keep you cool in any season. The size of this pillow offers you to adjust your sleeping position better, and also makes this a more suitable option for all kinds of sleepers. Shop the Acid Reflux Wedge Pillow from Medslant Bed Wedge Pillow by Xtra-Comfort If the size of the pillow is important to you, then another great option is the wedge pillow by Xtra Comfort. What makes this pillow stand apart from the rest is the incredible 12 inches of elevation. Yes, the adjustable loft of this pillow can be increased up to 12 inches, so you can remain supported and inclined for a number of different purposes, from sleeping to reading to working. Besides the torso, the legs can also be elevated using this pillow, and the high elevation is useful if you have a fracture or sprain. This folding pillow is made from dense memory foam, has a firmer feel than most other wedge pillows, and also offers more control because of the 3 in 1 design. The clever design of the pillow makes it useful for both the back and the rest of the body. The soft, microplush cover can be removed for washing, and the zipper keeps it snug and secure. There is also a handle on the cover, which can also be used for easy storage and portability. Because the pillow is large, the handle is useful. However, some users have said that the pillow is a little too firm and takes a little time to get used to. Shop Xtra Comfort Xtreme Comforts 7″ Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow The Xtreme Comforts Memory Foam Bed Wedge Pillow is made by layering two solid wedges, which make the sleeping surface soft and comfortable while accommodating both side and back sleepers. The sleeping position offered by this pillow not only allows the head and the neck to sink into the surface for better support and spinal alignment but also keeps the body inclined at a 30-degree angle. This helps reduce symptoms of acid reflux, sleep apnea and snoring. The pillow has a plush bamboo cover that facilitates not only excellent airflow but also provides maximum comfort to the sleeper. The pillow can be used to support other parts of the body, such as the back, the legs, and the knees. However, even though the pillow is mostly a great product for back and side sleepers that suffer from acid reflux, some users have complained about off-gassing and the pillow being too firm. Shop Xtreme Comforts How to Sleep If You Have Acid Reflux? Because acid reflux is more common than many other conditions, it is one of the biggest causes behind disrupted sleep. Acid reflux can happen at any time during the day but is notorious for striking at night, just when you’re trying to sleep. This happens particularly when you consume a big heavy meal close to bedtime or smoke or drink or have a natural tendency for GERD. In some people, everything they eat gives them acid reflux. And the problem compounds at night, just when you’re lying down in a supine position. In such cases, medicines are not much help, and surgery needs to be done in order to get rid of chronic acid reflux. Acid reflux or GERD is notorious for disrupting sleep quality. The heartburn, pain, and discomfort can keep you up for several nights if the problem persists. As a result, you are weary, sleepy, tired, and unable to feel comfortable because of the dyspepsia. There are actually people who go through this very frequently but don’t know what to do about it. Sleep position can have a vital role to play in managing nighttime acid reflux. As several studies have already found, elevation is the key to battling nighttime GERD. The point is to prevent the stomach from sending its contents to the throat through the esophagus. When you keep your torso elevated, the stomach acids are unable to come up towards the throat. When the acids reach the back of the throat or larynx, it prompts choking or a coughing fit, which wakes you up. You may also wake up when you get regurgitation when some amount of stomach acids come up into the mouth through the esophagus. All these aren’t pleasant things to experience when you’re trying to fall asleep. GERD or acid reflux is also known to be a risk factor for sleep apnea, a respiratory disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts through the night when the person is asleep. It is believed that the acids cause spasms in the voice box, blocking the airways and preventing air from flowing into the lungs. What makes matters worse is the mechanisms of sleep. Just the act of being flat on your back or side increases the risk or acid reflux. When you are in an upright position, sitting or standing, the force of gravity keeps the stomach acids from rising. When you are lying flat, it’s a lot easier for the stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. When a person is asleep, they swallow less frequently. As a result, the regular esophageal contractions that help keep food down in the stomach are slowed. When people are asleep, they also produce less saliva, which hinders the role it plays in keeping esophageal pH levels normal after acids are refluxed. That means you must revise your sleeping position in order to prevent instances of acid reflux. We need to lay down in order to sleep, and it can’t be changed. But what can be done is to keep the torso elevated to prevent the stomach acids from flowing back towards the throat. And what better way to achieve this than with the help of a wedge pillow? How High Should You Elevate Your Head? Although elevation is key in preventing the risk of acid reflux, there are a few do’s and don’ts of inclining your torso. First and foremost, remember that keeping your body supported during sleep is more important than anything else. If you fail to keep your neck, spine, and shoulders supported while you sleep, you are going to hurt your posture, and end up with aches and pains. That’s even worse than acid reflux. Before going out and buying a wedge pillow, remember that your torso shouldn’t be inclined any higher than six to eight inches. Yes, so that 12-inch pillow that you read about, keep the highest inclination only for the legs and stick to six to eight inches for the torso. Any higher and you have the risk of ending up with a stiff neck and sore back. Sleeping on your back is also a risk factor for acid reflux. When you sleep on your back, the pressure created on the stomach helps drive the acids back into the esophagus. That is why you must have noticed that lying flat not only increases the discomfort but also makes you prone to regurgitation. If you’re overweight or obese, the risk is even greater. Overweight or obese people should avoid sleeping on their back to prevent instances of acid reflux. Sleeping on the right side is also another factor that contributes to acid reflux. When you sleep on your right side, it relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, which tightens to prevent acid reflux. The loosening of these muscles increases the chances of acid reflux. Sleeping on the right side has also been found generally disruptive to sleep quality. Even if you do not suffer from acid reflux, you should practice sleeping on your left side. In various studies, it has been found that sleeping on the left side is best for optimal sleep quality. Whether you have trouble falling asleep, suffer from constipation or are prone to snoring, sleeping on your left side can be much better for quality sleep. How to Manage Nighttime Acid Reflux? Nighttime GERD is most often caused by eating habits and aggravated by sleep positions. If you frequently suffer from nighttime acid reflux, try the following for relief: Don’t Eat or Drink Too Close to Bedtime: This means you should stop eating and drinking at least two hours before going to bed. Also, make sure to avoid caffeine after 2 in the afternoon because it is also a potential cause for acid reflux at night. Avoid Acidic Foods: There are plenty of foods that seem harmless but are actually acidic or cause acid reflux. From tomatoes to red wine to coffee to garlic, the list is never-ending. Make sure to avoid these foods before bedtime to reduce the chances of acid reflux. Lose Weight: Excess weight and obesity is often a trigger for nighttime acid reflux, because of the pressure created on the abdomen. Losing weight, in that case, is the best solution to prevent acid reflux. Wear loose clothing to bed: Wearing clothing that is too tight to bed constricts the stomach and makes digestion difficult. Remember to wear loose fitting clothing to bed, to reduce instances of acid reflux. GERD or acid reflux may be common, but it’s also easily manageable. Simply make some lifestyle changes and get a wedge pillow to elevate your torso and enjoy better sleep every night.

Research published by the Annals American Thoracic Society states that the ill effects of air pollution may cause many people to lose sleep. Researchers have found that people living in regions with high air pollution are likely to face sleep problems compared to those living in areas with less air pollution. Low quality and lack of sleep have adverse effects on humans. It increases the chances of accidents and also makes them moody. If this becomes a habit, then it can be harmful to your health. People not having adequate sleep are more likely to suffer from cancer and cardiovascular diseases. How Air Pollution Affects your Airways Poor air quality could affect your upper airways and also increase the chances of sleep apnea. Dr. Ryan Donald, sleep medicine expert at The Ohio State University, said that they need to research more to conclude if poor air quality and sleep are interconnected. There are many reasons for sleep apnea. Air pollution causes congestion in upper airway but things like mold, dust, and pollen can cause allergies and increase the chances of sleep apnea. A study has found the association of air pollution and sleep but not a cause-effect relationship. Dr. Martha E. Billings professor of Medicine at the University of Washington stated that there is no direct relationship between air pollution and sleep, but yes, pollution causes people not to have a sound sleep. It makes them toss and turn while they are asleep. Billings said that more studies are required to understand the direct link between air quality and sleep. Air Pollution and Mood Adverse air pollution also affects your mood. A research published a few months back on people’s happiness pointed out that people living in more polluted areas are less happier. Researcher Siqi Zheng of MIT China Future City Lab stated that pollution has an emotional effect as well. Pollution makes people unhappy and makes them take irrational decisions. Researchers also noticed that people who do not like to live in air polluted areas, move to clean cities, and are likely to experience mood swings when they live in more polluted areas. Also, people living in cities with adverse air pollution are aware of and worried about their adverse health effects. Air Pollution and Health Problems Air pollution has a direct link to increased chances of respiratory problems like asthma and lung cancer. Studies have shown a relation between air pollution and many health problems. A study published in 2017 by the researchers of the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, stated that every additional 10 micrograms of PM 2.5/cubic meter of air increased the chances of cancer by 22% in seniors. Another research stated that there are increased chances of premature birth if the pregnant woman is breathing highly polluted air. Other research stated that air pollution particles in the human brain could lead to dementia. Indoor Air Quality and Sleep Indoor air pollution could be more harmful than outdoor air. The outdoor air is around 4 to 5 times less polluted than the air indoors. People are becoming more careful about what they eat and drink but airborne chemicals enter your body easily. One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality is by having more organic options at home. One of the common airborne chemicals in our houses are toxic gases like Volatile Organic Compounds and PBDEs. It is next to impossible to find a house to stay in the United States that does not have any airborne chemicals present. VOCs are found in homes in different forms like paints, hobby supplies, dry cleaned clothes, aerosol spray, air fresheners etc. Your bedroom is the place where you could avoid toxic chemicals. Converting your bedroom into a healthy retreat can be a positive impact on your health and your children. Clean air helps you have a good night’s sleep and is significant for overall health. Quality Air Purifier Investing in a quality air purifier is the best thing that you can do to improve air quality. It is almost impossible to limit the toxins and pollution but an air purifier can help you breathe cleaner air. You should look for an air purifier that is tried and tested by the users. Go for the one that removes more than 99% of airborne contaminants that are larger than 0.3 microns. Also, choose the purifier that eliminates more than 2500 toxic gases and odors that surround you like ammonia, benzene, cooking odor, dry cleaning odor etc. I recently reviewed the Molekule Air Purifier that will eliminate VOCs and goes beyond what a standard HEPA filter can do. I highly recommend it. Frequently Asked Questions Can Air Quality Affect Sleep? The air pollution could affect the quality of your sleep. The researchers have focused on two parts – sleep quality and sleep efficiency. This is measured as the total number of hours you sleep and the times you wake up after falling asleep. Can Air Pollution Make You Feel Tired? The pollutants in the air cause an increase in fatigue. If you feel tired often, you should take some time off from working in poor air quality areas. One of the common symptoms of poor air quality is headache. How Does Poor Air Quality Affect Health? Long term exposure to poor air quality can lead to many health issues like: Development of chronic respiratory diseases Asthma A decrease in lung function Respiratory issues like irritation of airways, difficulty in breathing and coughing. Do Air Purifiers Help You Sleep Better? Yes, air purifiers improve your sleep. They purify the air by trapping more than 99% of up to 0.3-micron airborne allergens like pet hair, molds, bacteria, dust and dust mites. These are the elements that wake you up in the middle of the sleep. Thus, air purifiers help you sleep better. We hope to have helped you give a basic idea of how poor air quality may be affecting your sleep. Investing in a quality air purifier is the only solution so far.

Sleep plays a major role in keeping us healthy, alert, and fully functional. In some cases, sleep is more important than food, because without proper sleep, the food that is eaten fails to nourish our bodies. A large percent of the urban population suffers from sleep deprivation. A person who goes without 7 or more hours of sleep every night is called sleep deprived. Chronic sleep deprivation can affect people of any age, although it is more common adults and the elderly. Children need 9 or more hours of sleep every night, while teens need close to 9 hours. Adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep. The amount of sleep you need doesn’t depend on how sleepy you feel. If you do not get your required quota of sleep every night, you are going to feel sleepy and fatigued during the day and develop other health issues in time if you are sleep deprived all the time. Sleep, more than anything else, affects not only our health, but also the society and the economy. Sleep deprivation has turned into an epidemic with hectic work life schedules and busy lifestyles robbing people of their precious sleep. Nearly 40 percent of children, 90 percent of teens, 70 percent of college going young adults, and 35 percent of working adults don’t get the required amount of sleep every night. In fact, sleep hardly features on anybody’s list of priorities. For most people sleep is a waste of time. Staying awake and getting some more work done seems better. But sleep deprivation has far reaching effects on our health, as well as the society and the economy. Most sleep deprived professions in the US You’d be surprised to learn that your occupation can be a major source of sleep deprivation. In every country there are certain professions that require people to work harder than others. The demands of such professions often cut short the time that should be devoted to sleep. In a survey conducted by mattress company Sleepy’s, the following were found to be most sleep deprived occupations in the US. In the same study, the most well rested professions were found to be forest loggers, hairstylists, and sales representatives among others. This goes on to show that those with a fixed work hour are better rested than those with erratic schedules. Causes of sleep deprivation The reasons why people may not get enough are varied. What holds true for one person may not be so for others. Just because someone stays up late or fails to get to bed early doesn’t mean they have an unhealthy lifestyle. It may well mean that they suffer from certain conditions that make getting sleep hard. Or there may be people to take care of at home, resulting in poor sleep quality. Several health conditions are often responsible for poor sleep quality. These include heart problems, kidney disorders, breathing problems, and thyroid issues. Sleep disorders also form a significant cause of sleep deprivation. Reasons include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. Erratic work schedules affect our sleep quality more than we can imagine. Staying up late for work or waking up in the wee hours to go to work result in chronic sleep deprivation over time. For some people, sleeping late is a personal choice. Watching movies or TV shows till late in the night or finishing pending work is the way of life. Certain medications interfere with sleep by affecting the production of melatonin the sleep hormone. Beta blockers and blood thinners are some of the medications affecting sleep. The sleeping environment is often responsible for disturbed sleep. Ambient noise, lights, temperature, and uncomfortable bed, all contribute to sleep deprivation. How sleep deprivation affects your body If you go without the required amount of sleep for a day or two, you will feel tired and weak. But if you go without sleep night after night, it leads to more serious complications. Mood swings and poor concentration are some of the immediate effects of sleep deprivation. With time, these get more complicated and lead to hormonal changes, increased or decreased appetite, compromised immunity and poor memory. When your brain fails to refresh and recharge at the end of every day, it causes foggy memory and diminished thinking, affecting productivity. If you still fail to change your lifestyle and get enough sleep, chronic sleep deprivation leads to high blood pressure, lowered sex drive, risk of heart disease, obesity, and depression. A large number of people in the US and elsewhere suffer from these consequences of sleep deprivation. How sleep deprivation affects society The consequences of sleep deprivation are further reaching than we imagine. It also impacts the society by affecting academic Performance, creating marital discords, poor performance at workplace, giving rise to obesity among children and adults, and various other health risks. How sleep deprivation affects the economy We might not think of sleep deprivation’s effect on the economy, but it is deeper than we assume. For instance, every year, the economy loses $411 Billion because of sleep deprivation related issues, including lost 1.2 million work days, loss of $2,280 per employee per year per company, cost $100 billion in cost of sleep deprivation treatment, loss of $109 billion because of drowsy driving, and 328,000 vehicular accidents a year. How to combat sleep deprivation Loss of sleep is controllable and can also be treated. Aside from getting diagnosed and treated for medical conditions, there are some easy ways to combat sleep deprivation and improve sleep quality including: Creating a sleep environment: This involves freeing your bedroom from all distractions like the TV, electronics, and work related stuff. The bedroom should be only for sleeping, not for other purposes. You should also try to remove ambient distractions like noise and lights. Evaluating the bed: Uncomfortable mattress or bed linen can have a major impact on sleep quality. The mattress is intricately connected to our sleep quality, so the mattress, sheets and pillows should be suitable for optimal sleep quality. Avoiding screen time before bed: The blue light from backlit devices hinder the production of melatonin. Therefore, at least two hours until bed time, reduce the time you spend in front of the TV, phone, tablet, or computer. Giving up bad habits: Cutting down on the consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco will promote the normal production of melatonin, and also aid in proper sleep. If you cannot give it up, try to avoid the consumption at least two hours before bedtime. Improving sleep hygiene: More often than not, sleep is all about routine. Going to sleep and awakening at the same time every day, sleeping on clean and comfortable sheets, removing clutter from the bedroom, and eating a light dinner are some of the ways to improve sleep hygiene and get rid of sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation not only affects millions of people around the world, but also affects the society and the economy. If the society, employers, and the general public show greater concern for this condition, it is possible to bring back productivity and also have everyone getting their full 8 hours of sleep every night. A better understanding can be achieved with the following infographic –

The chilly winter months are known to breed flu, common cold, and other annoying infections and viruses. If you are one of those unlucky ones to contract one or more of these winter illnesses, you know how difficult it is to get some sound sleep while you are constantly getting those sniffles and coughs. Well, there are some simple solutions to get a peaceful night’s sleep while battling with common cold and cough. Take a Steamy Hot Bath Taking hot steam in the shower can prove to be effective in opening your nasal passages while loosening the dried mucous and cleaning the airways. It is also a good way to relax and wind down before hitting the bed. The body becomes cold when you have a cold, and a steamy shower can help you to energize and reduce the symptoms of a blocked nose and running sinuses while making the nasal muscles relaxed. Sip Some Tea with Honey Just like a bowl of hot soup, a hot beverage can also loosen the mucus from your sinuses. But not all hot beverages will give out the same results as some hot tea with honey. Adding honey to tea not only helps in soothing a sore throat but can also prove to be effective as a cough suppressant to help you get rid of that sore throat. A Humidifier or Vaporizer Can Work Wonders Dry air and the cold season go hand in hand. Under such weather conditions, a good vaporizer or humidifier can add the required moisture into the air and soothe the sinuses. But it is necessary to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid making it the breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Change the water daily and clean the tank every couple of days to keep it clean. If there is a child inside the room, use a cool-mist vaporizer as warm mist units can cause burns to children who get too close to it. Maintain an Optimal Sleep Environment Just because you have a cold, don’t be tempted to overheat the room. Keep the room temperature at normal levels and stack up blankets so that you can remove them if you begin to overheat. It is also important to maintain the humidity of the room. Combine that with a good humidifier and you are sure to get a problem-free sleep at night. Reconsider Your Sleep Position Some people think that stacking an extra pillow under their head can provide relief from the cold and flu and help them get better sleep. But this can make the situation even worse by causing the head to sag forward and worsening the breathing problem. Instead, you can use a foam wedge that will help to raise your upper body, letting the nasal packages drain. Don’t lay on your back as it may worsen postnasal drip. Sleep on the side opposite to that of your blocked nose. Stay Hydrated Depriving the body of adequate fluid can make your nasal cavities dry. It is necessary to keep the body well-hydrated so that the entire respiratory system stays wet and prevent any breathing problems. You can also sip a hot caffeine-free beverage to give your throat some relief during bedtime. It will provide you with a short relief period during which you can slip off to slumber. Try Out Some Over-the-Counter Remedies Whether you are feeling hot, stuffy, and achy or any uneasiness due to cough and cold, you can always reach out for some over-the-counter medications. If the condition is severe, consider seeking medical advice from a doctor or an ear and teeth specialist. Some medications can escalate the problem if not taken at the right dosage. You can also ask a pharmacist to get the right solution for your cough, cold, or sinus problem. Prepare Yourself for the Night’s Sleep If you find yourself maintaining a relaxed posture, tossing and turning in bed, get out of your bed, and engage in some other activity. You can read a book by dimming the room lights or listen to some soothing music. Get into some low-intensity activity unless you feel sleepy. Don’t go to bed until you are feeling sleepy to promote healthier sleep habits throughout the year. Things to Avoid Besides the effective tips for sleeping with a cold, there are some don’ts that you should keep in mind to avoid making the situation even more complicated. Refrain from drinking alcohol as it will dry out your breathing passage and making it difficult for you to breathe. Also, it can swell up your sinuses and react adversely with your cold and flu problems. Don’t engage in any high-intensity activity as it will interfere with your sleeping routine and make it difficult for you to sleep. You cannot force yourself to sleep. So, don’t lie down forcefully expecting that sleep will come off naturally. Read a book or listen to some soothing music. Don’t use any gadget or digital device that will impact the release of melatonin by the body. Devices that are known to emit blue light can severely interfere with your sleep routine. Many people think that overheating the room will help them combat the common cold and get a better night’s sleep. But that is a complete myth as it might lead to night sweat and make you wake up in the middle of your sleep. Maintain normal room temperature to set the stage for a relaxed night’s sleep. Conclusion The good news is that common cold and flu will not last for more than a few days, or at most a week. Although they are irritating and uncomfortable, they are your on-and-off companion. Just make sure that you take some precautionary measures and necessary steps to help you combat the irritation when they occur. It will improve your health condition and help you to get rid of such problems quickly for a calm and relaxed night’s sleep.

Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep-related disorder that affects millions of people across the globe. If you or your loved one is suffering from the same problem there are several ways to treat this sleep disorder and minimize its effect on healthy sleeping habits. One of the quickest and simplest tricks that can help you ensure a good sleep cycle and prevent frequent awakenings at night is purchasing mattresses that can help you with your sleep apnea problem. Below is a list of the best products for sleep apnea along with a detailed guide to help you combat such a problem. Best Memory Foam Mattress for Sleep Apnea: Nectar Mattress If you have a sleeping partner and want to keep motion transfer at bay then the Nectar Mattress would be the best choice for you. The flagship memory foam bed from Nectar Mattress is constructed with a top layer of quilted gel memory foam, followed by a subsequent layer of gel memory foam. It also features a high-density memory foam transitional layer with a support core made of high-density polyfoam. The removable cover is a combination of cotton and TENCEL lyocell. The dense foam layer of the Nectar provides above-average durability with an estimated lifespan of 6-7 years. Pros: Exerts minimal pressure for those with stiff muscles and achy joints. Carries a budget price tag affordable to most buyers. Suitable for all types of sleepers – stomach, side, back, and combo. Best product for buyers looking for a long trial period and warranty. Cons: Inappropriate for individuals who dislike memory foam. Light-weight sleepers under 130 lbs might find it too firm. The body-hugging sensation that the mattress provides might be uncomfortable for some users. Shop Nectar Best Natural Mattress for Sleep Apnea: Avocado One of the best natural mattresses available in the market, Avocado mattress features an eco-friendly construction with 100% organic certified latex, organic cotton, and wool. The Avocado is a blend of the traditional innerspring with elevated comfort feature foam that assures a chemical-free, all-natural night’s sleep. The bed comes with environmental certifications like OEKO-TEX and GREENGUARD which ensures safety from hazardous substances. Pros: The firmness paired with the thickness of this mattress makes it a perfect choice for sleepers with heavier body frames. Committed to handcrafted construction and all-natural material, the bed comes straight out of the collection with no noticeable off-gassing. People who prefer a responsive and durable latex mattress should go for this product. Those who tend to sleep hot should opt for the Avocado. Cons: Inappropriate for petite side sleepers. If you are on a tight budget you should look for other alternatives as this is made from premium and certified organic material. Best Hybrid Mattress For Sleep Apnea: Lytton If you are looking for a durable, comfortable and serene mattress then you are at the right place as Lytton Sleep Mattress makes the best mattress for sleep apnea. The heavy gauge border coils provide all-round edge support and durability. Its cooling gel technology makes the mattress as breathable as a cloud and as cool as an ocean breeze. Considering the superior and durable material used, this mattress is expected to serve for a minimum of 10 years. If you have any doubt about the quality of this mattress they offer 100 nights trial for potential buyers to try out. Pros: The quantum coil system combined with high-density serene foam makes the mattress lasts longer than other market alternatives. The deep-pocketed coil system offers optimal back, hip, and shoulder support while minimizing the motion transfer. The serene foam provides consistent comfort for greater support while reducing motion transfer significantly for a better night’s sleep. The cover is made from eco-friendly certified organic cotton which provides a soft plush feel to the user. Cons: This mattress offers limited thickness and composition options. The Lytton may be a bit heavy for some users to move. Luxury: Brentwood Home Oceano The high-quality Brentwood Home Oceano mattress is designed to provide a luxurious experience to the user at a budget-friendly rate. This hybrid mattress uses both foam and coils with layers of gel memory foam and pocketed coils to offer both pressure relief and support to the user. The material is CertiPUR-US certified which ensures that the foam on which you are sleeping has low VOC and is non-toxic. Brentwood uses natural hydrated silica sand as fire-retardant layer in its Oceano mattress. Its cover is made from natural plant-based TENCEL fibers making it thick and soft to touch. The construction provides the bed with an innerspring feel, topped with plush and soft pillow top. Pros: It has earned positive reviews from sleepers who weigh 230 lbs or less. Both coil layers promote strong airflow while the top wool layer wicks away moisture. The mattress isolates motion better than most competing products. Perfect for eco-conscious shoppers. Cons: This mattress is inappropriate for those who prefer a classic memory foam feel. Buyers looking for the cheapest mattress might find it inappropriate. Performance: Eight Sleep For most online beds it is the convenience and value that sells, but for Eight it is all about the smart features more than anything else. Although it is technically not smart, the mattress contains a 4-layer foam with great pressure relief and support and also a nice medium feel. Its unique smart cover slips over the mattress and helps the user connect to his phone. The cover tracks the sleep of the user and ensures that each side of the bed is evenly warm. Pros: Eight follows the direct to consumer model to help buyers save a significant amount. The 2” Reactive foam offers consistent heating without getting excessively hot making it appropriate for sleepers who like to sleep cool. Eight has a good amount of bounce and body conformance for great pressure relief. This mattress is appropriate for all sleeping positions with a smart cover sleep tracker. Cons: If you prefer a spring mattress you should consider something with coils. Eight provides a medium feel you should look elsewhere if you prefer an extra-soft mattress. This mattress is inappropriate for sleepers weighing over 300 lbs. Budget: Allswell The Allswell hybrid mattress constructed from premium memory foam and supportive pocketed coils makes it the best economy mattress for sleep apnea. Allswell features three variants of its mattresses – The Allswell, The Luxe, and the Supreme. A comfort layer of copper with graphite-infused gel memory foam provides firmness to the mattress while keeping it soft and comfortable. Pros: The thicker coils along the perimeter ensure strong edge support with minimal sinkage. This mattress is suitable for all body types, including heavier sleepers. People on a tight budget should definitely opt for this mattress. It sleeps relatively cool as its spring system offers more breathability and doesn’t let the sleeper sink too much. Cons: It does not provide the same pressure-relieving sensation as a traditional memory foam mattress. It might feel a bit firm for lightweight side sleepers. More about the Best Mattress for Sleep Apnea If you are dealing with sleep apnea on a nightly basis you would probably be wondering if there is a perfect mattress to ease such symptoms. Fortunately, there are and you just need to know the essential factors that play a major role in your search process. The essential factors to consider include – Construction and Build Material The construction and build material of your mattress is likely to help with your sleep apnea problem Latex Mattress: Made from the sap of rubber trees these are light and airy material. Avoid buying synthetic latex when shopping for the best mattress for sleep apnea as it contains a petroleum base and chemical compounds that can affect breathing. Memory Foam Mattress: It offers superior pressure point relief by supporting the hips and lumbar area. Make sure you buy a high-quality product when purchasing a foam mattress. Innerspring mattresses and firm beds tend to lack pressure relief making them a less suitable choice for this purpose. Hybrid Mattress: Consists of an innerspring base with memory or latex foam as comfort layers. Check whether the hybrid mattress is compatible with an adjustable base. Natural and Organic Material If you have breathing problems the last thing you would want is a mattress that increases your breathing problems. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for natural and organic materials as opposed to synthetic ones. Synthetic mattresses are known to contain volatile organic compounds that trigger conditions of asthma, allergies, and respiratory problems. If an organic product is beyond your budget opt for a mattress that is hypoallergenic. Firmness Sleepers with sleep apnea problems usually sleep on their sides, especially if they are using a CPAP machine. This would require a mattress that not only provides ample support but also enough contouring to relieve the pressure points at the shoulders and hips. Choose a mattress that would be firm enough to provide support while preventing you from sinking too deep to maintain the right alignment. Best Mattress for Sleep Apnea FAQs What Type of Mattress Is Best for Sleep Apnea? If you are on a hunt for the best mattress for sleep apnea keep the different types of mattresses in mind before making a purchase. This includes – Memory Foam: The superior pressure point relief makes it a suitable choice for sleepers with sleep apnea problems. Latex: It is available either in natural or synthetic form. The natural latex is made from the sap of rubber trees that makes it a hypoallergenic component. Synthetic latex is made from a petroleum base and other chemical compounds that may worsen the sleep apnea problem. Hybrid: This combines innerspring base or core with a latex surface or memory foam. Choose a mattress that can adjust to your bed frame. Can a Mattress Help Sleep Apnea? An elevated bed will allow air to easily pass through the airways and into the vital organs. Although adjustable beds are not a solution to sleep apnea problems they can surely lessen the symptoms and bring more peaceful sleep to the user. A latex mattress can encourage a good sleeping posture, relax muscles and help with sleep apnea and insomnia problems. Can a Bad Mattress Cause Sleep Apnea? Sleeping on the wrong mattress can escalate the problems related to sleep apnea and insomnia. For severe cases of sleep apnea, the episodes can last the entire night with the sleeper waking up every thirty seconds. Is It Better to Sleep on a Hard or Soft Mattress? Sleepers who are experiencing troublesome back pain should opt for a firm mattress for a comfortable sleep. Firm mattresses are appropriate for sleepers who sleep on their back as they provide a more stable and even surface. Also, stomach sleepers find these mattresses more appropriate. Others may opt for a softer one. Bottom Line Your hunt for the best mattress for sleep apnea comes to an end once you get to know the features that you should be considering while searching for one. Rest is just your personal preference and choice which may influence your decision of selecting one product over the others.

We spend a lot of time with our smartphones, and it may be affecting our quality of sleep each night. Alongside smartphone usage, sleep deprivation rates have been skyrocketing in recent years. This is likely due in part to the fact that at least 95 percent of people use some sort of electronic device before bed. Here are just a few of the ways that modern technology is making an impact on how we sleep. Screens Disrupt Your Bedtime Routine It can be tempting to wind down before bed with a quick session on your smartphone, but games, social media, and more can end up disrupting your sleep schedule. Engaging your brain right before bed, especially if you’re excited or emotional, can end up triggering hormonal responses that will keep you feeling awake and alert. Sounds from your phone can also disrupt a full night’s sleep. Calls, texts, and social media notifications can pull you out of deep sleep cycles that are critical to body repair and maintenance. Even if you don’t awaken completely, this can still affect your REM and non-REM sleep patterns and leave you feeling exhausted the next day. Still, around one-fifth of all adults keep their ringer on throughout the night. Using screens in bed, whether you’re texting on your phone or watching a late-night movie, can trigger a learned association that the bed is a place for work, play, and socializing instead of sleep. You should keep your daytime activities confined to a couch or desk, and reserve the bedroom for sleep only. This will help strengthen the association between bed and bedtime in your head, making it easier to fall asleep at night. The Impact on a Kid’s Sleep Schedule It isn’t just adults that are losing sleep thanks to modern technology. Kids are also susceptible to insomnia related to using electronic devices before bed. Even just the presence of a screen in a child’s room has been shown to affect sleep patterns. While TV tends to be the main culprit for most young children, more and more kids are also being kept up by using smartphones in the late hours. The Impact on Teen’s Sleep Schedule Screen-related sleep deprivation is a particular problem amongst today’s teens. Teenagers tend to need more sleep than other age groups to function, and many of them already have trouble with insomnia. Only around 15% of teens are getting the full eight-and-a-half hours of sleep that they should be getting each night. Throwing smartphones into the mix can lead to some severely sleep-deprived teens struggling to concentrate in school throughout the day. Over three-quarters of teenagers admit to using their smartphones without their parents’ knowledge when they’re supposed to be sleeping. Blue Light Suppresses Melatonin Photo by Youssef Sarhan Smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices with screens tend to emit blue light, which is one of the shortest and brightest wavelengths on the visible spectrum. When it hits our eye, it mimics sunlight, convincing our body that it’s daytime out. Spending time at night staring into a blue screen scrambles up your circadian rhythm, which is the internal clock that determines your sleep-wake cycle. It does this using melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland. Melatonin levels are lowest during the day, rising as it begins to get darker outside and peaking during midnight. Blue light restricts or shuts down melatonin production, preventing us from falling asleep. Staring at a computer or smartphone almost acts as a “reset” button at night, convincing your brain that it needs to be awake and alert. Staying Plugged in Increases Anxiety It’s no secret that anxiety makes it harder to sleep. It can be tough to settle down and relax after a stressful day at home or the office. Smartphones can compound on this stress, whether you’re watching an intense movie, playing an exciting game, or responding to emails. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, your body responds physically by releasing cortisol into the bloodstream. At the same time, you also essentially shut down melatonin production. While this “fight or flight” response used to come in handy back when we had to flee from predators, these days, it mostly serves as an inconvenience that makes it difficult to relax and nearly impossible to sleep. For some people, simply spending time away from their phone can cause separation anxiety or even withdrawal-like symptoms. This can make it difficult to fall asleep at night, especially for those who feel compelled to keep checking their phone. Like any addiction, excessive smartphone use can quickly chip away at your quality of life. The Impact of Insomnia on Health Photo by Charles Deluvio A good night’s sleep is essential for both your mental and physical health. Insufficient sleep has been linked to a number of different health conditions in adults, including: Memory Impairments: Sleep gives your body a chance to consolidate and connect information learned throughout the day, affecting both short-term and long-term memory. Trouble Concentrating: In addition to impairing memory, sleep deprivation also makes it difficult to focus and can make activities such as driving or operating machinery more dangerous. Depression and Anxiety: Without enough sleep, you may experience fluctuations in mood. Chronic insomnia can lead to more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety. A Weakened Immune System: Sleep is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system. Without it, you’re more susceptible to catching germs and bugs. High Blood Pressure: People who sleep between just five and six hours a night have an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. This also increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Obesity: Insomnia can affect levels of the hormones ghrelin and leptin, which are involved in telling your body that it’s full. This can lead to overeating and weight gain. Type II Diabetes: In addition to encouraging weight gain, a lack of sleep can also affect insulin levels and increase your risk of developing diabetes. The health effects of a poor sleep schedule can be even more drastic for developing minds and bodies. Both children and teenagers who don’t get enough sleep each night can suffer from issues such as: Poor School Performance: Sleep deprivation makes it difficult to process and retain information for school-aged children, resulting in lower grades. Lethargy: Part of being a kid is getting outside and running around, but this can be tough for a sleep-deprived body. Tired kids have trouble engaging with others during playtime, recess, and sports games. Social Isolation: Without a full night’s sleep, it can be hard to pay attention and hold a conversation. This makes it a challenge to make friends in school. Mood Swings: Most parents know that kids can be moody at the best of times, but things can get out of hand after a few nights of insufficient sleep. Insomnia can lead to sad, angry, or even hyperactive children. Bad decisions: A lack of sleep, much like alcohol, can affect impulse control, especially in teenagers. This can result in reckless decision-making and potentially long-lasting consequences. What to Do About Sleep Loss If you find that your smartphone is affecting your sleep schedule, it might be time to make some changes. After all, a better night’s sleep will help you to start your day feeling fresh. Luckily, there are several ways that you can change your smartphone habits to improve your sleep schedule. Dim the Screen at Night When using your phone after dark, you should turn down the brightness setting. Doing so will help your eyes to adjust and get your brain in “nighttime mode,” ensuring that you’ll be able to fall asleep easier later. If you’re reading, try reversing the typesetting to white text on a black background. Limit Screen Time Photo by Bailey Torres It can be easy to get lost in your phone before bedtime, and so you should take steps to ensure that you’re not staring at screens for too long each night. Try to limit your screen time after the sun goes down, including your smartphone, your TV, and your computer. Instead, try reading a book or taking a bath. Cut Back on Social Media For many of us, social media consumes a large portion of our day. Taking selfies, making updates, and responding to friends and followers can have us spending hours at a time staring at our phones. If you’re trying to cut back on your smartphone usage, one of your first steps should be to reduce your social media presence. Doing this will not only help you to limit screen time but also reduce your stress levels. Avoid Your Phone Before Bed It’s a good idea to cut yourself off from screen time at least thirty to sixty minutes before you plan to go to bed. If possible, you should remove electronics from your room entirely when you sleep and silence phone notifications. Set an Example Parents can help their kids to avoid screens before bed by setting a good example themselves. Technology curfews should be enforced family-wide. Instead of letting the kids watch TV before bed, try reading to them or playing a family board game to wind down in the evening. Solutions to Look Forward To The latest models of phones, computers, and other mobile devices offer features that are designed to address the issue of sleep deprivation. Smartphone makers are heavily invested in finding new and innovative ways to make sure that their products won’t have a negative impact on a user’s lifestyle. There are several new and upcoming technologies that are helping to tackle to issue of insomnia amongst smartphone owners. Sleep Analysis Mobile devices are making it easier than ever to keep an eye on your health. In addition to fitness and nutrition apps, sleep tracker apps help you to maintain a balanced lifestyle. Photo by Crew Smartphone apps link up to wearable devices via the cloud and monitor things such as heart rate and breathing pattern while you sleep. Over time, this data can show you issues that you might be having falling or staying asleep, helping you to take the first step towards healthier sleeping habits. Personalized Scheduling Mobile apps are also helping people to reorganize their sleep schedule. Advanced algorithms can help you to determine the best time of day to go to bed based on daylight hours and your unique circadian rhythm. This can make it easier to adapt to changes in your schedule, such as flying to a new time zone or working odd hours. Alternative Backlighting Because blue light disrupts melatonin production and inhibits sleep, many electronics manufacturers are looking for ways to selectively eliminate blue wavelengths from screens. That way, users can adjust settings at night to avoid tricking their brain. More and more devices are including a “night mode” where the screen shifts from a cool blue to a warmer red or yellow light. According to a study done by researchers at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, orange tones that block out blue wavelengths are less likely to keep you up at night. It’s best to switch to night mode shortly after sundown to reduce strain on your eyes. If you have an older device that doesn’t offer a nighttime backlight setting, there are apps for mobile devices and laptops that are designed to reduce blue light wavelengths. You can also find free software programs such as f.lux. If these apps don’t do the trick, specialized screen protectors may be a better option. Less Screen Time Leads to Better Sleep Photo by bruce mars Spending time on your smartphone, especially before bed, can have a significant impact on your quality of sleep. It makes it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, which can make your performance at home or work suffer. Sleep deprivation also takes its toll on developing minds, causing kids and teens to fall back in school. If you’re having trouble sleeping, it may help to cut back on your smartphone usage. By avoiding electronics before bed, you’ll be able to fall asleep more easily. Not only that, but you’ll get to enjoy a deeper, more peaceful night’s sleep.

Are you one of them who avoid camping just because you miss the cozy bed at night? Well, you can get the same level of comfort even when you are camping on sleeping cots. Yes, the sleeping cots can help you get that cozy night’s sleep even when you are outdoor. These camping cots are collapsible camping beds that maintain your sleep quality while you are out on recreational camping in family-friendly campsites. Not only for camping, but these products have also found a place in homes and hotels in the form of add-on beds whenever required. Below is a detailed guide on the best sleeping cots available in the market that can help you make an informed decision. Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot The coil suspension system of ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot makes it the perfect product for camping. It can easily fit inside a car’s back and offers a near-experience of sleeping in a wooden bed. The cot legs are designed to support the structure for heavy and tall persons to fit in comfortably. The cot has coil support as well, which makes it comfortable to sleep on without the possibility of deflating. Pros: Durable, strong, and lightweight Easy setup Heavy and tall people can use cot comfortably Cons: Difficult to fold for storage The foam is thin and may not last longer TETON Sports Outfitter XXL This camping cot by Teton Sports offers its users great sleeping comfort, ensuring sound sleep. When paired with a sports outfitter pad, it provides great comfort and can be used as a guest bed. This cot is stable and relatively strong and can support up to 600lbs. It is a perfect cot for outdoor activities, including base camp and hunting. Pros Durable and Portable Can support heavyweight up to 600lbs Plenty of space on the bed Can be set up easily Cons A slight heavy to carry The price is a little higher Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot The Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot is easy to set up and assemble. It is made of a sturdy aluminum frame, which can support the weight without bulging. This cot is ideal for users who are planning to go out for car camping. This cot comes along with a 3/8 insulating foam cot. It can handle all kinds of weather. Pros It offers a warranty of one year against defects Encapsulation rain fly gives protection against extreme stormy weather It is firm so that you can sleep soundly A heavy-duty carrying bag allows easy transportation and set-up Cons Slightly expensive Slightly bigger than most camping cots Byer of Maine Portable Folding Cot Byer of Maine has invested a lot of time and effort in designing their portable folding cot. Their portable folding cot is easy to set up and store. This cot offers the perfect solution for travel, home, and camping. Besides being portable, it is incredibly sturdy and durable. The cot may be set up within a minute, as it does not have loose parts. Pros Provides maximum comfort Can be set up within a minute Strong legs of steel Can be folded easily for storage Cons Heavy Slightly expensive Coleman Pack-Away Cot The Coleman Pack-Away Cot is a traditional cot that has been given a modern look with the state-of-the-art technology. It is constructed, especially using durable and strong steel frames providing maximum support. It has a convenient folding bag along with cup holders for lanterns, glasses, and books. This cot has a portable storage bag that makes it good for camping. Pros It can be set up easily within a minute Can support up to 300lbs weight Is appropriate for both indoors as well as outdoors The powder-coated steel frame is rust-resistant, Cons It cannot be shipped to all countries Alpcour The lightweight of Alpcour makes it easy to carry. The cot can hold up to 300 lbs making it sturdy and durable at the same time. It can easily fit an adult or two small children. This cot has a side pocket that can store odds, cell phones, and keys. Pros Made of 600D durable polyester fabric Lightweight and has carrying case Can hold two children or an adult Cons Pillow is slightly uncomfortable Mountain Trails Base Camp Cot This minimalist masterpiece by Mountain Tails is undoubtedly the slimmest and the most affordable model available in the market. The length of this cot makes it suitable for tall people, and the width offers adequate room for users. The legs and the frame are built using powder-coated steel, and the top is made of polyester making it a durable and sturdy product. Pros Offers a lot of room for sleeping Affordable Useful add-on beds at home Tough cover and sturdy frame supports up to 225lbs weight Cons Complicated assembling No rubber or plastic cover on legs Weak C-shaped legs. Coleman Trailhead II Camp Cot The Trailhead Cot from Coleman is portable and collapsible with the width of a standard bed. If you want a military-grade camp cot at a low cost that provides the premium features, then this is a good option. The cot is not big enough but can accommodate 300lbs of weight. The cot is foldable and, therefore, can be stored easily at a corner. Pros Can be easily folded to move and to store Military-grade design The X-frame can provide support for durability Cons A little heavy in comparison to other brands. The cover may be tight when new Essential Factors To Consider While Buying A Cot Shopping for a cot is not as easy as you might think. You need to consider a host of factors simultaneously, which would help you in making an informed decision. Some of the essential factors include – Checking Out The Fabric Cots are available in a wide variety of fabric. The best sleeping cots are made from nylon and polyester. These fabrics help in maintaining a warm and cozy environment while you are resting. While some cots might be made out of the canvas, it makes the product heavy to carry, which can be a problem when you are trekking or camping. Type Of Frame Apart from the fabric, the frame type if equally important while shopping for a cot. The frames of a cot need to be lightweight, durable, and rust-resistant. Alongside this, it would be necessary to ensure a sturdy frame due to which people opt for a steel frame instead of aluminum. It is recommended to go through manufacturer reviews to help you guide through the frame selection process. The frames must consume less space and should be easy to fold. X-Shaped Legs This type of sleeping cot is widely favored by army men. With comfort similar to that of king-sized beds, these are a must-have for campers. The X-shape of their legs are sturdy and stable enough to carry heavy weights. However, you may need to go through the reader menu if you are a first time user. U-Shaped Legs These types of legs are mostly observed for sleeper cots that can be folded twice or even thrice for carrying. The underneath folding technique helps in distributing the weight of the cot evenly, making it easier to carry it to camps, hotels, and houses. Experts recommend the U-shaped legs for cots if you are a beginner in camping. Apart from the above-mentioned factors, there are other things that need consideration, such as the size of the bed, insulation, sleeping pattern, etc. There are multiple options available in the market that can surely help you to make the right choice depending on your needs and preference. Cot Buying FAQs Can Camping Cots Damage The Tent Floor? Many camping cots come with rubber coverings on their legs, making them suitable for use inside tents. Cots that do not have any protective covering may be covered up using tennis balls or small pieces of the carpet, which can be placed under the legs to protect the tent floor. So, a camping cot may damage the floor of the tent, but they don’t have to if you take adequate protective measures. Are Cots Comfortable To Sleep On? Sleep cots provide the same sleeping experience to users as normal beds, but they are bulky and heavy. Still, many campers are willing to accept such characteristics to ensure a good night’s sleep. Most cots are manufactured using an aluminum frame with fabric stretching that gets taut once assembled. Are Sleeping Cots Difficult To Assemble? The modern camping cots are quite simple and easy to assemble in comparison to the traditional ones. Many cots come directly out of the box ready to use, such as the Coleman ComfortSmart Delux and the Bayer Cot. But even if it requires a bit of assembling, you won’t have any problem getting the things in place. What Are Cots Made Of, And Which Is The Best For Me? All cots are either made of polyester, canvas, or nylon. You won’t find a spring coil mattress in a cot as they are too heavy to carry. It would be better for you to choose a product made from synthetic material like nylon, which is both sturdy and durable while being lightweight at the same time. Such material also dries out faster in case they get wet while camping outdoors. The Bottom Line It is not difficult to get hold of the best sleeping cot provided you know what and where to look for. Throughout your search process, you must remember that the most expensive and heaviest ones are not always the best. Different sleeping cots are designed for different purposes. Make sure you match your requirement with the features that a specific sleeping cot offers to help you make an informed decision.

Alcohol is the most common type of sleep aid. But drinking alcohol regularly can interfere with your sleeping pattern. It may affect sleep quality, too. Does this mean that you need to give up alcohol altogether? No. You simply need to be smarter about how you manage your liquor consumption, instead. Caption: How to sleep better after drinking alcohol Source: Pexels There are several strategies that you can use to ensure better sleep after drinking alcohol. Avoid Caffeine If you want to sleep better after having a drink, stay away from caffeine. This does not only refer to coffee. You must refrain from consuming other caffeinated drinks like sodas, teas, and energy drinks. They will keep you awake at night. If you combine that with the effect of alcohol in your body, it will be hard to enjoy a restful night. If a night of drinking is on the horizon, no worries. Whether you are out with friends or enjoying the game with any of these great tasting beers, you should be smart. Make sure you avoid having any caffeinated drinks, especially during the hours close to when you plan to hit the sack. Have a Balanced Meal Drinking your favorite beer or wine on a full belly can reduce the impact of alcohol on your sleep (versus not having a full meal). When you are going out for a drink or sipping some spirits at home, don’t skip dinner. A solid and balanced meal can regulate your body’s absorption of the alcohol. Make sure you have enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates. This will allow the alcohol to be gradually introduced to your bloodstream, reducing its overall impact on your body. The less disruption your body has, the better your sleep will be. Drink Plenty of Water Alcoholic drinks, like beer, can make you dehydrated. When your body is dehydrated, you not only toss and turn during your sleep, you can also suffer from a headache the next morning. So keep yourself hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can combat the diuretic effect of alcohol on your body. Tips for better sleep after drinking alcohol Source: Pexels The goal is to drink as much water as the alcohol you consume. When it is not possible, just try to drink as much water as possible. This will help keep your body hydrated. Another benefit to drinking plenty of water is that it fills you up quickly. As a result, you don’t consume as much alcohol as you normally would. Say No to Smoking Aside from staying away from the bad combination of alcohol and caffeine, smoking should be avoided too. A lot of people like to drink and smoke at the same time. If you are one of them, don’t be surprised if you have trouble sleeping at night. Nicotine (found in cigarettes) is a stimulant. If you smoke, it can definitely keep you awake at night. By reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke (or by not smoking at all), you will be able to sleep faster. This can also improve the quality of your sleep. Turn Off the Alarm If you have an alarm set on the regular, turn it off just before hitting the bed. Give your body a chance to recover from the effects of alcohol during your sleep. Do not disrupt that sleeping cycle with an alarm going off. If possible, keep your phone away from your bed, too. You would not want to be woken up by a text message or call. After all, you are going to be highly sensitive to any noise so you want to minimize any disruptions as much as possible. Stay off Alcohol Before Hitting the Bed A lot of people have relied on alcoholic drinks such as beer or wine to help them get to sleep. But studies have shown that this is actually doing the opposite. It is time to change your habit of getting a drink right before you hit the bed. This habit of yours can make you feel more awake and energetic, instead, which can then cause a disruption in your sleep cycle. It is best to get started early on your alcohol consumption – this is called the ‘happy hour’. Do not wait until much later in the night when you are just about to go to bed to get your drink. You are more likely to sleep faster and more soundly when you have had your drink a few hours earlier. Make Your Bedroom Cozy Sleep better even with alcohol Source: Pexels This might seem like a simple step but it can be very effective if you want to fall asleep faster. A cozy bedroom is one that is dim and has a comfortable temperature that will help you doze off. Darker colors on the bedroom wall are also suitable for sleeping. If you are not into dark wall colors, neutral hues can create a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom. Ideally, your bedroom should be somewhere that is far from any sources of noise (such as the living room or a noisy street). The less disruptive noises there are, the sooner you can sleep. The quality of your sleep will be better, too. Setting the ideal temperature within your room can also make sleeping easier. Aim for a temperature range of 60-68 degrees Fahrenheit. Switching to new bedding such as microfiber sheets can improve the quality of your sleep as well. The goal is to make your sleeping space as cozy as possible. Final Reminders Heavy drinking is associated with sleep disorders. If you want to reduce the impact of alcohol on your sleep, you might want to lower your consumption. Instead of drinking as a regular nightcap, you can skip some nights. If you can, limit alcohol consumption to 2-3 times a week. Follow a pattern that works for you to improve your sleep quality. It is always a good practice to keep things in moderation.

Everything You Need To Know About Night Terrors Have you ever found your child screaming awake in the middle of the night, and wondered what could be wrong? If you answered yes to that, you are not alone. Several parents around the world still don’t quite understand what makes their children wake up screaming and crying from sleep in the middle of the night when nothing is seemingly wrong. What worries parents more is the fact that the children have no memory of what made them wake up agitated. Most people assume such occurrences to be nightmares. But there is something more common than that behind these episodes: night terrors. What Are Night Terrors? Unlike nightmares, night terrors are actually a sleep disorder, mostly affecting children below the age of 12. During a night terror episode, the child may still be partly asleep, and not be aware of their surroundings. Although night terrors are most common in children, it also affects a small percentage of adults. While children grow out of night terrors as they get older, adults may need help to get better. How To Recognize Night Terrors Some of the most common symptoms of night terrors are the same as that of nightmares. These include: Sudden awakening from sleep Crying or screaming Sweating Rapid heartbeats Fear of going back to sleep Harsh breathing While children are more likely to forget these episodes, adults tend to remember them. This is because children don’t fully awaken during a sleep terror episode, but adults wake up completely, allowing them to remember what happened. Quite often, night terrors are accompanied by sleepwalking (also called somnambulism). This creates more danger for the person by increasing the risk of injury and accidents. What Causes Night Terrors? No definite cause has yet been found for night terrors, but a significant factor might be sleep deprivation or too much stress. In children, a very important cause of night terrors is an unhealthy environment at home. When a child is constantly affected by stress and conflict, it may result in sleep disorders like night terrors. These episodes can also occur in children because of their underdeveloped nervous system. This causes the fight or flight mode to be activated at wrong times, resulting in night terrors. Other underlying causes may include illnesses like high fever, tiredness, or head injuries. In adults, the causes of night terrors can be more severe, and often accompanied by other disorders like anxiety or insomnia. Night terrors in adults can also be a result of post traumatic stress disorder or drug abuse. While childhood night terrors usually go away with age, adults need medical help to get better since there are underlying causes that need to be treated. Treatments For Night Terrors Sleep terrors in children are fairly easy to treat since most of the time they are not caused by any underlying condition. The most important treatment for childhood night terrors is a comfort. Being with the child and providing comfort and reassurance is usually enough to pacify them and help them fall back asleep. Parents must be aware of any unusual symptoms they notice about their children’s night terrors. This may include a particular pattern of these episodes, or any underlying causes like anxiety, illnesses, or injury. Doctors treat childhood night terrors by either therapy, medication, or by suggesting relaxation techniques. Therapy includes talking to the patient, finding out underlying conditions, and suggesting coping mechanisms to manage stress. If any particular event has caused stress and anxiety in the child, then the doctor will try to find it out by talking to the patient and gently seeking information. In more severe cases, hypnotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy may also be used to get to the root of the problem and treat sleep terrors. Medications are rarely used to treat night terrors, but if these episodes aren’t caused by any serious condition and still continue to affect the person after therapy, the doctor may prescribe sleeping pills or tranquilizers bring about uninterrupted sleep. In children, the most effective way to cope with night terrors is by establishing a relaxation routine before bedtime. This includes taking a warm bath, having a hot drink, reading or listening to stories, or doing meditation. These techniques must be initiated by parents, and usually, take some time to show results, but are effective in the long run to calm down the child and aid in better sleep. Coping With Night Terrors Comfort and reassurance are usually enough to treat childhood night terrors as long as they are not caused by any underlying condition. Holding the child and assuring them that they aren’t in any danger is the best way to help calm them down. If possible, one of the parents may sleep with the child to provide a sense of safety. Parents must make sure children get proper sleep every day, and eliminate stress by incorporating fun and relaxing activities in the daily routine. The environment at home should be peaceful, and not create stress in the child’s life. If a child doesn’t grow out of these episodes by age 10 or 12, medical help must be sought. Adults can try making some lifestyle changes, like getting more sleep, reducing intake of caffeine or tobacco, and indulging in relaxation before bedtime. Usually, these will suffice unless there is any serious cause behind the sleep terrors. In that case, a doctor must be consulted for appropriate treatment. This might take some time to eliminate the sleep terror episodes but generally, provide relief if treatment is completed. Night terrors are not usually a cause for concern. While both children and adults may experience them, some simple lifestyle changes and proper sleep are enough to provide relief. Any unusual pattern or symptom must be reported to a doctor to rule out any serious medical condition.

Yaasa is a furniture company that makes mattresses, adjustable beds, desks, and bedding. They are based out of Santa Barbara, California and are known for producing products that are both innovative and stylish. The recent addition of their weighted blanket is no exception. Most weighted blankets on the market are made with glass beads sewn into the fabric for weight. Yaasa instead knits their weighted blanket making it breathable and stylish so that you will actually want to leave it out. Why Do You Need a Weighted Blanket? If you haven’t tried a weighted blanket, you owe it to yourself to experience it. A good weighted blanket feels like a reassuring hug that instantly gives you a feeling of security and calm. It’s a big reason why first responders wrap trauma victims in blankets. But you don’t need to be under duress to get reap the benefits of a weighted blanket. There are now all kinds of weighted blankets to choose from but Yaasa has a ***** that takes weighted blankets to the next level. Ordering the Yaasa Weighted Blanket You can order this blanket directly from the Yaasa website. It currently retails for $249 in the 15 lb. weight and $269 in the 20 lb. weight. For this review, I received the 15 lb. weight in a cream color. As you can see below, the blanket comes wrapped in plastic to keep it clean. I noticed that there was a bit of a new fabric smell to this blanket but if you air it out for a bit it should be fine. Here’s what it looks like out of the packaging. Unlike a normal weighted blanket, this is knitted with large cables of fabric that give the blanket its weight but also make it very breathable. This is a great design because it is also stylish. Construction of the Weighted Blanket Below are the construction details of the blanket as listed on the Yaasa website. Dimensions and Weights 15 lbs Length 72″ x Width 40″ 20lbs Length 72″ x Width 45″ Materials Cover 100% Cotton Filling 100% Polypropylene Fibers Warranty Every Yaasa Weighted Blanket comes with a 1-year warranty. Shipping The Yaasa Weighted Blankets ship from Santa Barbara, California using FedEX ground. Country of Origin Made in China. My Yaasa Weighted Blanket Findings This blanket has a unique feel. I like that you can stretch it out a bit as it is a loose-knit. Here you can see that I can easily poke my fingers through it. In the picture below I am using it on my Sol Tec Lounge meditation chair. I use weighted blankets because it helps me relax and stay grounded. According to the care instructions, the blanket should be dry cleaned only. I suspect this is because they don’t want the yarn coming through in the washing machine. I think this would be problematic with a washing machine with an agitator but I have a newer high-efficiency washer that can handle oversized loads. I thought I would put it in the wash just to see what would happen. The blanket washed just fine but it took about 3 dry cycles for the blanket to get dry. However, It wasn’t damaged at all. The picture with me in the blanket on the meditation chair is the blanket after it was washed. My Yaasa Weighted Blanket Recommendation Weighted blankets are wonderful. My daughter has her own and I now have a couple in my bedroom. I don’t use them every night but sometimes they are just what I need to relax or fall asleep faster. You can certainly find cheaper weighted blankets but I would rather have this blanket out and folded as it looks great and is a wonderful conversation piece.

Coop is best known for its line of adjustable loft pillows. I was recently given a free sample of their new mattress topper for review. This topper can be flipped for a soft or firm feel making it more versatile than your typical topper. A queen size retails for $269.95 so it is certainly more expensive than most but since you get two feels in one topper there’s a lot of value there too. Overview of the Flip Mattress Topper You can get the best price on your Coop topper through their website. Most mattress toppers do not come with a trial period but Coop gives you 100 nights to try it out to see if it is a good solution for your needs. If you don’t like it you can contact Coop and they will give you a prepaid return label so it is also free return shipping. You also get a 5 year warranty but that only covers you against a manufacturer defect under normal use. Since it’s a topper, there’s really not much that can go wrong with it, and if there is, you will usually know it right away and can just return or exchange it. The topper comes packaged in a small container. Here’s a video overview of the Coop Flip Mattress topper. How Much Does the Coop Mattress Topper Cost? Below are the most recent prices from the Coop website. Currently, they only offer the topper in a queen and king size. Size Retail Price Queen $269.95 King $289.95 Construction of the Copp Flip Mattress Topper Below are the construction details of the topper. The darker foam is the soft foam and the light foam is the firmer foam. Includes our top-rated Mattress Protector for 100% waterproof protection Elastic bands on each corner ensure a secure fit to your mattress 5-year limited warranty 100-night sleep trial Dimensions Queen: 57″ (W) x 78″ (L) x 4″ (H) King: 74″ (W) x 78″ (L) x 4″ (H) Materials Mattress Topper: CertiPUR-US certified polyurethane foam Cover: polyester Mattress Protector: bamboo-derived viscose rayon and polyester, with waterproof backing My Coop Mattress Topper Findings Although this topper is pricey, there are some added features that make it worth the expense. First, you get their waterproof cover included. This is a machine washable cover with elastic bands that will keep the topper in place and keep it clean. The topper is 4 inches thick which means it’s going to substantially change the feel of your current mattress. The soft side will really cradle your body and provide substantial pressure relief for even the firmest of mattresses. The firm side is still going to provide quite a bit of pressure relief but with less sinking. Most toppers are only 2-3 inches thick and so having a 4 inch topper is truly getting 2 toppers in one. The elastic bands are designed to be flexible enough to work with thick mattresses. In the picture above it is attached to a 14-inch thick mattress. Here’s a picture illustrating sinkage with my 14 lb. bowling ball on the topper. This is the soft side of the topper on top. I highly recommend this topper for guest beds that are structurally sound, meaning they still support sleepers well but are a bit too firm. Having the ability to adjust firmnesses ensures your guests will get the optimal firmness without having to buy and store two separate toppers.