Symptoms
Why am I exhausted after a full night's sleep?
Common causes of unrefreshing sleep — from sleep apnoea and fragmented sleep to timing, environment and lifestyle — and when to consider a sleep test.
By Sámh · General sleep-health information
It is possible to spend eight hours in bed and still feel exhausted the next day. Total time in bed is not the same as restorative sleep, and persistent daytime fatigue is one of the most common reasons people seek help.
Common causes of unrefreshing sleep
Several patterns can produce this experience: irregular timing, fragmented sleep from micro-arousals, undiagnosed sleep-disordered breathing such as obstructive sleep apnoea, low-quality sleep environments, stress and mood disorders, and lifestyle factors including alcohol, caffeine and shift work.
When to investigate further
Sleep apnoea is a particularly important cause to rule out because it is common, treatable, and linked to heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure when left untreated. Loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing and waking unrefreshed are classic clues.
If persistent fatigue is your main symptom, it is worth taking a careful look at the quality — not just the length — of your sleep. A home sleep apnoea test is a reasonable first step for many adults.
Sources and further reading
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