Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Experiencing Nighttime Anxiety? Avoid Doing These Things At Night

(Credit-Canva)

Anxiety often picks up pace when you are resting or when your body is at ease with many reporting their anxiety peaking at night, disrupting sleep. Although there is no clear reason why you get nighttime anxiety or panic attacks but a recent study published in the PNAS, explains that trouble sleeping due to unwanted, popping-up memories are common in various <span>mental health</span> problems. Th study found that when people don't get enough sleep, they struggle to control these intrusive memories. Using brain scans, the researhcers saw that this happens primarily due to the malfunctioning of the brain areas that normally help stop unwanted memories from coming up. Basically, implying to sleep loss messing up the brain's ability to block unwanted memories.

<h2>Habits That Can Cause To Nighttime Anxiety</h2>

There are many things that can make this anxiety worse as well! It's common to find yourself wide awake at night, replaying the day's events or scrolling through your phone. This happens because, as the day's distractions fade, your mind is left alone with its thoughts. According to a global survey 42% people struggle with sleep due to anxiety and 27% due work-related stress. The brain doesn't easily switch from high alert to sleep mode. Habits like checking work emails or late-night screen time keep the nervous system active. Bright lights and stimulating activities prevent the brain from slowing down, leading to lighter, less restful sleep.

Spending too much time looking at bad news or endless videos on your phone can make you feel stressed. It's like your brain is playing a game where it keeps looking for something new, but it never relaxes. This makes your body release stress hormones, which keep you awake. Instead, try to stop looking at screens a few hours before bed. Read a book or write in a journal to help your mind calm down.

Reading or answering work emails at night makes your brain think about work problems. This keeps you alert and makes it hard to relax. The bright light from screens also stops your body from making the sleep hormone. Try turning off work notifications and stopping work emails a few hours before bed. This will give your brain time to unwind.

<h4>Taking Certain Medications Too Late</h4>

Some medicines, like those for ADHD, can keep you awake if you take them too late. These medicines make your brain more alert, like drinking coffee. If you're having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. They might be able to change when you take your medicine or change the dose.

Drinks like coffee, soda, and tea have caffeine, which keeps you awake. Caffeine stays in your body for a long time, so even if you drink it in the afternoon, it can still affect your sleep at night. Try to stop drinking caffeine by lunchtime. In the evening, drink herbal tea instead.

<h4>Eating Heavy Meals Before Bedtime</h4>

Eating big meals before bed can cause stomach problems and make it hard to sleep. Also, eating too early can mess with your body's sleep schedule. Try to stop eating a few hours before bed. If you're hungry, have a light snack. Avoid drinking alcohol close to bedtime as well. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

mental health

sleep health

sleep wale cycle

axiety attack

panic atttack reasons

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sweet But Risky? Common Sugar Substitute May Harm Brain Cells, Study Finds

Canadian Swimmer, Penny Oleksiak Handed Provisional Suspension Over Anti-Doping Violation, 'I Am Clean,' She Says

Over-the-Counter Vitamin B6 Linked To Nerve Damage: Hundreds Join Class Action In Australia

Health & Wellness

Why You Should Go For An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Foods To Lower Cortisol Levels In Your Body

High-Fiber Dips You Can Make At Home For The Week

Weekend Warrior Exercises To Makeup For Stressful Week

Experiencing Headaches At Word? Natural Remedies To Try

Yoga Poses That Enhance Digestion

Health Benefits of Walking Backwards

No Eggs? Egg-Alternatives You Can Add To Your Diet

Savory And Smart Ways To Add Broccoli To Your Diet

Calorie Burning Habits That Can Help You Shed Extra Pounds

Yoga Poses That Can Help With Bloating

Fiber-Rich Oatmeal Dishes You Can Have For Breakfast

Signs You Must Visit A Doctor For Your Back Pain

Avocado Meal Prep Ideas To Increase Healthy Fat In Your Diet

Arm Exercises You Can Do At Home

Quick-Office Lunches That Can Keep You Full-Longer

How Increased Screen Time Affects Children's Health

Homemade Recipe To Make Protein-Rich Pancakes With Healthy Alternatives

Push-Up Variations You Can Do At Home

Common Mistakes Running Mistakes People Make

Low-Calorie Foods That Keep You Full For Long

Yoga Poses That Help You Get Rid Of Back Pain

Natural Ways To Increase Protein In Your Diet

Managing Excessive Daytime Sleepiness – Tips To Try

How Much Protein Is Too Much?

High Fiber Indian Foods You Should Try

10 Easy Ways To Boost Daily Fiber Intake

Adding Walnut Oil To Your Diet? Benefits You Should Know

Drinks That Soothe Headaches And Migraines

Waist Exercises For More Toned Belly

This Is How Stress Affects Your Heart

Does Digital ‘Brain Rot’ Really Affect Your Health?

Dishes With Fermented Foods To Eat For Your Gut Health

Yoga Poses That Stimulate Good Bowel Health

Weekend Warrior Exercises For Full Body Movement

Weekend Meal Prep Ideas That Will Last You A Weekend

Easy Homemade Healthy Dishes For Long Afternoons

Silent Walking: Mental Health Booster That Keeps You Fit

Dumbbell Exercises You Can Do At Home

These Foods Are Keeping You Awake At Night

Anxiety often picks up pace when you are resting or when your body is at ease with many reporting their anxiety peaking at night, disrupting sleep. Although there is no clear reason why you get nighttime anxiety or panic attacks but a recent study published in the PNAS, explains that trouble sleeping due to unwanted, popping-up memories are common in various mental health problems. Th study found that when people don't get enough sleep, they struggle to control these intrusive memories. Using brain scans, the researhcers saw that this happens primarily due to the malfunctioning of the brain areas that normally help stop unwanted memories from coming up. Basically, implying to sleep loss messing up the brain's ability to block unwanted memories.Habits That Can Cause To Nighttime AnxietyThere are many things that can make this anxiety worse as well! It's common to find yourself wide awake at night, replaying the day's events or scrolling through your phone. This happens because, as the day's distractions fade, your mind is left alone with its thoughts. According to a global survey 42% people struggle with sleep due to anxiety and 27% due work-related stress. The brain doesn't easily switch from high alert to sleep mode. Habits like checking work emails or late-night screen time keep the nervous system active. Bright lights and stimulating activities prevent the brain from slowing down, leading to lighter, less restful sleep.Doom-scrollingSpending too much time looking at bad news or endless videos on your phone can make you feel stressed. It's like your brain is playing a game where it keeps looking for something new, but it never relaxes. This makes your body release stress hormones, which keep you awake. Instead, try to stop looking at screens a few hours before bed. Read a book or write in a journal to help your mind calm down.Checking Work EmailsReading or answering work emails at night makes your brain think about work problems. This keeps you alert and makes it hard to relax. The bright light from screens also stops your body from making the sleep hormone. Try turning off work notifications and stopping work emails a few hours before bed. This will give your brain time to unwind.Taking Certain Medications Too LateSome medicines, like those for ADHD, can keep you awake if you take them too late. These medicines make your brain more alert, like drinking coffee. If you're having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. They might be able to change when you take your medicine or change the dose.Having Caffeinated DrinksDrinks like coffee, soda, and tea have caffeine, which keeps you awake. Caffeine stays in your body for a long time, so even if you drink it in the afternoon, it can still affect your sleep at night. Try to stop drinking caffeine by lunchtime. In the evening, drink herbal tea instead.Eating Heavy Meals Before BedtimeEating big meals before bed can cause stomach problems and make it hard to sleep. Also, eating too early can mess with your body's sleep schedule. Try to stop eating a few hours before bed. If you're hungry, have a light snack. Avoid drinking alcohol close to bedtime as well. 

experiencing nighttime anxiety? avoid doing these things at night

Supriya Ramesh

The Itchy Truth About Pads and Tampons: What Your Period Products Are Not Telling You

Credits: Canva

What is Coeliac Disease That Affects 2 Million People in the U.S. Each Year?

what is coeliac disease that affects 2 million people in the u.s. each year?

What Happens When You Drink Lemon Water for 30 Days?

what happens when you drink lemon water for 30 days?

Measles Can Erase Your Immune System’s Memory—Here’s What That Means

measles can erase your immune system’s memory—here’s what that means

Can Ricinoleic Acid in Castor Oil Help Reduce Arthritis Pain and Inflammation?

can ricinoleic acid in castor oil help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation?

For something that’s supposed to be a monthly saviour, your sanitary pad could actually be a trouble in disguise. If you’ve ever spent your period feeling itchy, sore, or just...off, you’re not imagining it. According to gynaecologist Dr Vaidehi Marathe, many conventional pads and tampons contain elements that don’t quite agree with your body.

Itchiness is a common complaint during menstruation, but most people blame sweat, heat, or hormones. The real problem, says Dr Marathe, might be your pad itself. Many commercial pads are loaded with synthetic materials, added fragrances, and chemical adhesives that can irritate the delicate skin in your intimate area. That persistent itch could be your body’s way of saying, please get this thing off me.

It doesn’t end with itching. If you’ve ever developed a rash down there during your period, Dr Marathe says your pad’s texture or material could be behind it. "Poor-quality materials or excessive friction can cause chafing, redness, and irritation," she says in an Instagram video. 

Even tampons, which many prefer for comfort and convenience, aren’t totally innocent. High-absorbency varieties are known to dry out the vaginal lining, leading to discomfort and even micro-tears. Dr Marathe warns that such dryness disturbs the natural balance of the vaginal mucosa, and that’s when things can start to get really unpleasant.

While menstruation has a natural odour, a strange or strong scent often comes from bacterial buildup, not your body. Pads, especially the non-breathable kind, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr Marathe points out that the odour is often caused by bacteria thriving in that warm, moist environment. 

You don’t have to suffer for the sake of convenience. Look beyond the supermarket aisle. <span>Cloth pads</span>, menstrual cups, and period underwear are all gentler options that are free of harmful chemicals and better for your skin and the environment. They allow the area to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.

Menstrual cups in particular have gained popularity for being economical, eco-friendly, and surprisingly comfortable once you get the hang of them.

Periods are already uncomfortable enough without adding allergic reactions, rashes, or infections to the mix. If you’re constantly battling irritation or feeling ‘off’ during your cycle, it’s worth examining what’s coming into contact with your skin for hours at a stretch. 

period rash

tampon dryness

menstrual cup

cloth pads

period panties

pad irritation

eco friendly period products

intimate itching

period odour

For something that’s supposed to be a monthly saviour, your sanitary pad could actually be a trouble in disguise. If you’ve ever spent your period feeling itchy, sore, or just...off, you’re not imagining it. According to gynaecologist Dr Vaidehi Marathe, many conventional pads and tampons contain elements that don’t quite agree with your body.Itchiness is a common complaint during menstruation, but most people blame sweat, heat, or hormones. The real problem, says Dr Marathe, might be your pad itself. Many commercial pads are loaded with synthetic materials, added fragrances, and chemical adhesives that can irritate the delicate skin in your intimate area. That persistent itch could be your body’s way of saying, please get this thing off me.Rashes, roughness, and frictionIt doesn’t end with itching. If you’ve ever developed a rash down there during your period, Dr Marathe says your pad’s texture or material could be behind it. "Poor-quality materials or excessive friction can cause chafing, redness, and irritation," she says in an Instagram video. Even tampons, which many prefer for comfort and convenience, aren’t totally innocent. High-absorbency varieties are known to dry out the vaginal lining, leading to discomfort and even micro-tears. Dr Marathe warns that such dryness disturbs the natural balance of the vaginal mucosa, and that’s when things can start to get really unpleasant.That smell isn’t just your periodWhile menstruation has a natural odour, a strange or strong scent often comes from bacterial buildup, not your body. Pads, especially the non-breathable kind, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr Marathe points out that the odour is often caused by bacteria thriving in that warm, moist environment. Healthier swapsYou don’t have to suffer for the sake of convenience. Look beyond the supermarket aisle. Cloth pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear are all gentler options that are free of harmful chemicals and better for your skin and the environment. They allow the area to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.Menstrual cups in particular have gained popularity for being economical, eco-friendly, and surprisingly comfortable once you get the hang of them.Your period deserves betterPeriods are already uncomfortable enough without adding allergic reactions, rashes, or infections to the mix. If you’re constantly battling irritation or feeling ‘off’ during your cycle, it’s worth examining what’s coming into contact with your skin for hours at a stretch. 

the itchy truth about pads and tampons: what your period products are not telling you

Giardia Infection from the Well: Doctor Warns Against Drinking Water Straight from ‘Natural’ Sources

giardia infection from the well: doctor warns against drinking water straight from ‘natural’ sources

Nutrition

How Naturopathy Uses Greens Like Brahmi and Moringa to Promote Detoxification and Gut Health

how naturopathy uses greens like brahmi and moringa to promote detoxification and gut health

5 Healthy Foods For Your Dental Health

5 healthy foods for your dental health

Many people start their day with a glass of <span>lemon water</span>, hoping for a range of health benefits—from better skin to improved <span>digestion</span>. But what actually happens when you stick to this habit every day for a month? According to gastroenterologist <span>Dr Saurabh Sethi</span>, lemon water can offer some real advantages, as long as you are aware of a few important points.

Lemons are packed with more than 30 beneficial plant compounds, says Dr Sethi. These include <span>antioxidants</span> and anti-inflammatory agents that support your body's daily housekeeping on a cellular level.

But freshly squeezed is important. “Pasteurised lemon juice often loses a significant portion of its nutritional value,” Dr Sethi explains. 

While you are sipping away, thinking you are just hydrating enough, something pretty important is happening in the background. The natural acidity of lemons can help your body absorb minerals more effectively, particularly iron, according to Dr Sethi. That means your morning lemon ritual might be giving your iron supplements or spinach salads a bit of extra firepower.

And lemon water does not magically "alkalise" your body. But what it does do is help your digestive system set the stage for better nutrient uptake.

<strong>Skin Goals and <span rel="noindex">Collagen</span> Dreams</strong>

If you are secretly hoping for that elusive “glow-up” by day 30, you might be in luck. Lemons are a great source of <span>vitamin C</span>, a key player in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints cushioned, and your connective tissues in top shape.

Dr Sethi says that daily lemon water may support healthier skin from the inside out. Think of it as your internal skincare serum. 

As Dr Sethi points out, lemon water might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with <span>acid reflux</span> or sensitive stomachs. The very same acidity that helps with mineral absorption can irritate the oesophagus lining or worsen heartburn in susceptible folks. If you have ever felt that familiar burn after a glass of lemony water, your body is throwing a sign. 

lemon water

vitamin c

collagen

skin health

digestion

acid reflux

hydration

antioxidants

iron absorption

dr saurabh sethi

Many people start their day with a glass of lemon water, hoping for a range of health benefits—from better skin to improved digestion. But what actually happens when you stick to this habit every day for a month? According to gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi, lemon water can offer some real advantages, as long as you are aware of a few important points.Lemons Pack a Big PunchLemons are packed with more than 30 beneficial plant compounds, says Dr Sethi. These include antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that support your body's daily housekeeping on a cellular level.But freshly squeezed is important. “Pasteurised lemon juice often loses a significant portion of its nutritional value,” Dr Sethi explains. Absorption Gets a BoostWhile you are sipping away, thinking you are just hydrating enough, something pretty important is happening in the background. The natural acidity of lemons can help your body absorb minerals more effectively, particularly iron, according to Dr Sethi. That means your morning lemon ritual might be giving your iron supplements or spinach salads a bit of extra firepower.And lemon water does not magically "alkalise" your body. But what it does do is help your digestive system set the stage for better nutrient uptake.Skin Goals and Collagen DreamsIf you are secretly hoping for that elusive “glow-up” by day 30, you might be in luck. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, a key player in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints cushioned, and your connective tissues in top shape.Dr Sethi says that daily lemon water may support healthier skin from the inside out. Think of it as your internal skincare serum. The Bitter TruthAs Dr Sethi points out, lemon water might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs. The very same acidity that helps with mineral absorption can irritate the oesophagus lining or worsen heartburn in susceptible folks. If you have ever felt that familiar burn after a glass of lemony water, your body is throwing a sign. 

Dementia Caregivers Often End Up Being Nieces And Nephews Of The Family

Health News

RSV Vaccine For Expecting Moms Cuts Risk Of Severe Lung Infections In Infants by 72%; Premature Babies To Be Vaccinated Before Winter

rsv vaccine for expecting moms cuts risk of severe lung infections in infants by 72%; premature babies to be vaccinated before winter

UK Scientists Scan Over 100,000 People, What The Human Imaging Study Could Reveal About Your Health?

uk scientists scan over 100,000 people, what the human imaging study could reveal about your health?

Parenting

Inner Child: Kids Start Judging Their Bodies Before They Can Even Spell ‘Fat’, The Damage Can Last A Lifetime

inner child: kids start judging their bodies before they can even spell ‘fat’, the damage can last a lifetime

Diagnostic Anomaly: Rare Condition Turned Man’s Penis 'Rock Hard' Into Bone

diagnostic anomaly: rare condition turned man’s penis 'rock hard' into bone

Caring for a family member who has <span>dementia</span> is a herculean task. Not only does one have to be patient but also vigilant, keep track of things as well as find make sure to communicate with the person they are taking care of. Not many people feel up to the task and often experience caregiver’s burnout sooner or later. However, when a family member does get diagnosed with dementia, who usually steps up to the task? 

A recent small study reveals that two-thirds of nieces and nephews who care for an older relative with dementia never anticipated taking on that responsibility. These caregivers often found themselves in the role either gradually or due to family circumstances, according to findings published in The <span>Gerontologist</span>. 

One researcher noted that while this unplanned care shows immense love, it also hides a lot of stress. These caregivers juggle their own households, children, and jobs alongside their primary caregiving duties. 

Despite the unexpected nature of the role, these nieces and nephews often had strong, lifelong connections with their aunts and uncles. They were shaped by family ties to potentially become caregivers. 

Many participants expressed feeling like they were "paying back the love" their aunt or uncle showed them growing up. This suggests that when care comes from a place of genuine gratitude rather than just obligation, caregivers are more likely to persevere, even when resources are scarce and stress is high. 

For this study, researchers talked in depth with 20 nieces and 5 nephews who were caring for an aunt or uncle. These caregivers were between 38 and 67 years old and lived in several states. All of them either lived with their relative or saw them at least three times a week. 

This research is especially important now because as the population gets older, many more extended family members might find themselves in unexpected caregiving roles. 

<h2>Deep Family Bonds and <span rel="noindex">Unexpected Demands</span> </h2>

The study revealed that most of these caregivers grew up in the same town as their aunts and uncles. They often described their relatives as "fun" or their "favorite," someone they could talk to or get advice from. In a couple of families, the aunt was even like a second mother. These younger relatives kept strong connections with their aunts and uncles over the years. 

Despite these close bonds, most of the caregivers (19 out of 25) never expected to become primary caregivers. For example, one nephew took on the role because his wife and her sisters worked outside the home, and he had a flexible remote job. Another niece stepped in because her own mother, who was initially caring for the aunt, became too sick to continue. She even described tough situations where her aunt would throw food. 

The study also showed that a person's current life situation played a bigger part in them becoming a caregiver than factors like being single or not having children. Surprisingly, nearly half of the relatives with dementia had their own children still alive, and most had living brothers or sisters, yet the nieces and nephews still became the main caregivers. 

<h2>Recognizing Non-Traditional Caregivers </h2>

These findings highlight that support systems need to recognize that non-traditional caregivers, like nieces and nephews, are often stepping in to fill crucial roles. Understanding what these extended family caregivers go through gives a more complete picture of how families care for their loved ones. 

Learning about their experiences will help us figure out what support they're missing and create programs to help them stay healthy and well. This benefits everyone involved: the person with dementia, the caregiver, and society as a whole. 

Dementia

unexpected demands

gerontologist

Dementia Caregivers

Family Dementia Caregivers

caring for a sick family member

Caring for a family member who has dementia is a herculean task. Not only does one have to be patient but also vigilant, keep track of things as well as find make sure to communicate with the person they are taking care of. Not many people feel up to the task and often experience caregiver’s burnout sooner or later. However, when a family member does get diagnosed with dementia, who usually steps up to the task? A recent small study reveals that two-thirds of nieces and nephews who care for an older relative with dementia never anticipated taking on that responsibility. These caregivers often found themselves in the role either gradually or due to family circumstances, according to findings published in The Gerontologist. One researcher noted that while this unplanned care shows immense love, it also hides a lot of stress. These caregivers juggle their own households, children, and jobs alongside their primary caregiving duties. Driven by Love, Not Just Duty Despite the unexpected nature of the role, these nieces and nephews often had strong, lifelong connections with their aunts and uncles. They were shaped by family ties to potentially become caregivers. Many participants expressed feeling like they were "paying back the love" their aunt or uncle showed them growing up. This suggests that when care comes from a place of genuine gratitude rather than just obligation, caregivers are more likely to persevere, even when resources are scarce and stress is high. Who Are These Caregivers? For this study, researchers talked in depth with 20 nieces and 5 nephews who were caring for an aunt or uncle. These caregivers were between 38 and 67 years old and lived in several states. All of them either lived with their relative or saw them at least three times a week. This research is especially important now because as the population gets older, many more extended family members might find themselves in unexpected caregiving roles. Deep Family Bonds and Unexpected Demands The study revealed that most of these caregivers grew up in the same town as their aunts and uncles. They often described their relatives as "fun" or their "favorite," someone they could talk to or get advice from. In a couple of families, the aunt was even like a second mother. These younger relatives kept strong connections with their aunts and uncles over the years. Despite these close bonds, most of the caregivers (19 out of 25) never expected to become primary caregivers. For example, one nephew took on the role because his wife and her sisters worked outside the home, and he had a flexible remote job. Another niece stepped in because her own mother, who was initially caring for the aunt, became too sick to continue. She even described tough situations where her aunt would throw food. The study also showed that a person's current life situation played a bigger part in them becoming a caregiver than factors like being single or not having children. Surprisingly, nearly half of the relatives with dementia had their own children still alive, and most had living brothers or sisters, yet the nieces and nephews still became the main caregivers. Recognizing Non-Traditional Caregivers These findings highlight that support systems need to recognize that non-traditional caregivers, like nieces and nephews, are often stepping in to fill crucial roles. Understanding what these extended family caregivers go through gives a more complete picture of how families care for their loved ones. Learning about their experiences will help us figure out what support they're missing and create programs to help them stay healthy and well. This benefits everyone involved: the person with dementia, the caregiver, and society as a whole.  

dementia caregivers often end up being nieces and nephews of the family

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.

Experiencing Nighttime Anxiety? Avoid Doing These Things At Night

Quick Stories

Dementia Caregivers Often End Up Being Nieces And Nephews Of The Family

Premature Menopause Could Increase The Risk Of Developing Depression In Women

Poor Dental Health Could Be Linked To Chronic Health Condition

Health Conditions A-Z

Sweet But Risky? Common Sugar Substitute May Harm Brain Cells, Study Finds

Canadian Swimmer, Penny Oleksiak Handed Provisional Suspension Over Anti-Doping Violation, 'I Am Clean,' She Says

Over-the-Counter Vitamin B6 Linked To Nerve Damage: Hundreds Join Class Action In Australia