When you are feeling unwell, sleeping is one of the best ways to help your body recover, boosting your immune system so it can fight off the illness quickly and effectively. It is ironic then that being ill can prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep. If this is the case for you, here are some top tips to help you get some much-needed shut-eye.
1. Reduce anxiety
Especially since we are amid a pandemic, for some people, being ill can be a worrying experience, increasing feelings of anxiety and lowering quality of sleep. You can reduce this worry by understanding what is making you ill and knowing how to treat it.
In terms of coronavirus, you can do this by getting an at-home covid test from Myhealthchecked. Within 48 hours you will know whether you have the virus or not and be able to go about the right plan of action for recovery. Gaining that peace of mind that you are on the right track will help ease those worries that once kept you awake.
2. Go to bed early
It might seem obvious, but the earlier you go to bed, the longer you will be asleep and so the longer your body must recharge and build your immune system. If you are not usually one for an early night, this might not be an easy task, but there are things you can do to help.
Make your bedroom a dark, quiet, and calming environment to make falling asleep a relaxing experience. At least an hour before bed, switch off your phone, TV, laptop, and use this time to wind down and read or listen to music instead. This will help to relax your body and ensure you get a better sleep.
3. Stock up on medicines
Taking the appropriate medications before bed will help to speed up your recovery as well as relieve any possible symptoms throughout the night that might disrupt your sleep. It is important, however, to make sure you are taking the right medication for your symptoms, so talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
A night-time cough can be especially disruptive, but there are a number of home remedies you can try to help ease it. Gargling salt-water, lozenges, or a spoonful of honey before you go to bed can help coat your throat, calm your cough and make for a much more peaceful night.
4. Drink something hot
When you are feeling unwell and congested, try to drink hot fluids, whether that be soup or tea. Not only will it help to keep you hydrated, but the steam from it will help clear out your nasal passages, opening your airways.
Taking a hot shower or bath before bed will have similar advantages with the steam continuing to ease congestion and help you breathe easier. Hot drinks and showers are not only a good form of decongestant, but they can also help you to relax, easing you into a more restful night’s sleep.
