what happens when you sleep high
What Happens When You Sleep High?
Sleeping high, or going to sleep under the influence of cannabis, can have various effects on your sleep quality and overall well-being. While some people may experience improved sleep, others can face negative consequences. Understanding the potential impact of sleeping high can help you make informed decisions about your sleep routine and overall health.
Improved Sleep Onset
One of the potential benefits of sleeping high is improved sleep onset, which refers to the time it takes for you to fall asleep. Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), that interact with receptors in the brain and body. These interactions can help promote relaxation and induce sleepiness.
When consumed before bedtime, cannabis can potentially shorten the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. This can be beneficial for individuals who struggle with insomnia or have difficulty winding down at the end of the day.
Potential Disruptions in Sleep Architecture
Despite the initial positive effect on sleep onset, cannabis consumption can lead to disruptions in sleep architecture, which is the natural pattern of sleep stages.
Research suggests that cannabis use can suppress rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is the stage of sleep associated with dreaming. REM sleep plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and emotional regulation. A reduction in REM sleep can result in feelings of grogginess and a lack of restful sleep.
Additionally, cannabis use has been linked to an increase in slow-wave sleep (SWS), also known as deep sleep. While deep sleep is important for physical restoration and immune system function, excessive amounts may lead to excessive grogginess and difficulty waking up in the morning.
Next-Day Drowsiness
Sleeping high can also contribute to next-day drowsiness. The residual effects of cannabis can linger in your system even after waking up, potentially leading to grogginess, difficulty concentrating, and decreased alertness throughout the day.
It’s worth noting that each individual may respond differently to cannabis, and some people may be more prone to next-day drowsiness than others. Factors such as dosage, strain, and personal tolerance can all influence the extent of these effects.
Effects on Sleep Disorders and Respiratory Function
While sleeping high may provide temporary relief for individuals with certain sleep disorders, it is important to consider the long-term consequences. Cannabis use has been shown to reduce the overall quality of sleep in individuals with sleep apnea due to its impact on respiratory function.
While cannabinoids can have relaxing effects on the airway muscles, they can also lead to a decrease in muscle tone. This can potentially worsen sleep apnea symptoms, as it contributes to the collapse of the airway during sleep.
Discussing with a Healthcare Provider
If you are considering sleeping high or using cannabis as a sleep aid, it is advisable to discuss your plans with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual sleep patterns, medical history, and any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
A healthcare provider can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks, and suggest alternative strategies to improve your sleep if necessary.
Conclusion
Sleeping high can have both positive and negative effects on sleep quality. While it may help with sleep onset and relaxation for some individuals, it can disrupt the natural sleep architecture, leading to next-day drowsiness and possibly exacerbating certain sleep disorders.
It is important to consider the potential risks and benefits before incorporating cannabis into your sleep routine. Consulting a healthcare provider can help provide personalized advice and ensure you make informed decisions regarding your sleep and overall well-being.
