When I started on CPAP, I had hoped that I would soon need less sleep since I would be sleeping way better. And while that may technically be true, I think I still need over 9 hours.
I spent around 5 straight days sleeping between about 7.5 and 8 hours, and I felt like I was pretty dead. I was still very tired in the morning, and waning throughout the day. I also generally lacked motivation and energy.
Last night, I slept more than 9 hours, and I do feel quite a bit better today. So for now, I’m going to try to make sure I sleep 9 or more hours each night.
I’ve also considered the possibility that caffeine may play a role. My AHI has been between about 1.5 and 2 for a couple weeks consistently. I’ve had caffeinated tea most mornings, and I’m wondering if even that small amount had an impact.
I reviewed data and realized that some of my lowest AHI nights were when I was sleeping in the alternate cabin. One notable thing about that is that I had tea every morning, but it always lacked caffeine. At the regular cabin, I still had caffeine.
It could also just be the bed, or some other environment factor. It’s hard to say at the moment.
Regardless, I think I’ll try avoiding caffeine for a while and seeing how that goes. If it leads to a lower AHI every night, I may have to forgo it permanently.
And if it turns out not to make a difference, I should consider what other factors may be leading to a higher AHI. I’d like to see if I can keep it under 0.5.
That’s it for now!
I actually think that the amount I sleep has been slowly tapering off. I never sleep more than 9.5 hours anymore, and usually it’s 8-9 hours. Occasionally I wake up ready to go in less than 8 hours.
Which has never happened before! I hope to see things continue to improve, and it would actually be nice if it turns out I rarely even need a full 8 hours.