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Alcohol’s Negative Effect on Sleep Apnea

cpcvirginia • May 3, 2017

It’s that time of year again—spring is in the air and summer is right around the corner! With the warm months ahead of us, now is the time to grill out and have a drink with your friends and family, right? During these warm months, people decide to go to the local bars, sit on the patio or rooftop and indulge in some alcohol (maybe even a shot or two). While it might be fun for the day, there are negative effects of the consumption of alcohol on your body.

Alcohol and It’s Effect on Your Sleep

You might be thinking, “Oh I will fall right asleep and have a great night’s sleep after I drink a little.” This might seem like it’s true, but it isn’t. Alcohol has a negative effect on your sleep. Whether you are sleeping after a night of drinking, or even just a couple glasses at home, alcohol can cause:

  • Vivid dreams and nightmares – you are more likely to have intense, colorful dreams and nightmares when alcohol is in your system. There is also a change you will even act out your dreams in your sleep or even sleepwalk.
  • Breathing problems – Alcohol is a sedative. This means alcohol will cause your entire body to relax, even your airway, which increases the risk of sleep apnea.

So, what you should you then when it comes to alcohol and celebrations, or just having a simple drink or two after work?

Stop Drinking Alcohol

A glass of wine or beer after a long day might be enjoyable, but excessive drinking can be detrimental to your health and sleep. Minimize your alcohol intake or stop completely to further improve your health and sleep. It’s a compromise you will need to make to feel better.

Contact Dr. Bonnie Foster in Warrenton, VA to learn more about sleep apnea and the negative effects of alcohol.

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