Daytime drowsiness

Posted by jeanimarston @jeanimarston, 4 days ago

I have an overwhelming need to sleep for 2 hrs right after lunch. I try to stick to a regular sleep schedule and get at least 7 hrs a night. I have moderate sleep apnea that is not being treated at present. Is my falling asleep after lunch a part of aging (75 F), or effects of the apnea? I don't eat breakfast because I know I will go back to bed! Does anyone relate?

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John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | 4 days ago

@jeanimarston, You are not alone. There have been times in my life when I was feeling pretty sleepy right after lunch but not sure I could pin it down to 2 hours right after lunch. The SleepFoundation.Org has some information on your question that explains it a little better than I can.

"Feeling sleepy after eating (post-prandial somnolence) is common and can be triggered by large meals, high-carb or high-fat foods, or rapid blood-sugar fluctuations."
-- Why You Get Sleepy After Eating: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/why-do-i-get-sleepy-after-eating

There is a related discussion that you might find helpful:
-- Sleepiness After Eating: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/sleepiness-after-eating/

I think it's really helpful to stick to a regular sleep schedule. I also have obstructive sleep apnea and have been using a CPAP for 5+ years which has helped me quite a bit with being tired during the day. Have you thought about looking into sleep apnea treatment to see if it might make a difference?

jeanimarston | @jeanimarston | 4 days ago

In reply to @johnbishop "@jeanimarston, You are not alone. There have been times in my life when I was feeling..." + (show)

@johnbishop
Thank you so much for your help and compassion. I am addressing the apnea/treatment options with my primary Dr in May. I love that now I know there's a name for this---post-prandial somnolence! I appreciate the links as I will def check them out!