If you wake up with a headache after a nap, there is usually no severe underlying reason. Headaches can be really difficult to deal with, especially after you have just woken up. Therefore, it is better to be familiar with why you might have a headache after waking up.
- Teeth Grinding
If you have the unconscious habit of grinding your teeth in your sleep, it can explain why you have a headache after taking a nap. Sugar or even a dream sequence can make you grind your teeth while sleeping. As a result, it strains your jaw muscles, leading to pain in your head and teeth. - Taking Too Much Caffeine
You might feel rejuvenated after starting your day with a cup of coffee. Maybe you drink too many cups of coffee to stay energetic throughout the day. Thus, you have a headache. Caffeinated drinks or excessive caffeine consumption is a big no-no for your health. It can also lead to dehydration, which is another reason for headaches. - Dehydration
Drinking enough water throughout the day is the chief requirement for a healthy body. And we all know a healthy body leads to a healthy mind and well…head. Thus, fewer headaches. Moreover, not drinking a sufficient amount of water causes dehydration. As a result, you get headaches, dry mouth, dizziness, and more. Therefore, dehydration might be the answer if you feel a little dizzy after nap or in the morning. - Muscle Tension
Muscle Tension in your neck and scalp can explain why your head hurts after you wake up from a nap. Headaches due to strain in muscles are called tension headaches. Sitting for hours on your desk or driving for a long time can cause muscle tension. Light stretches and taking rest breaks while working can help reduce tension headaches. - Sleep Inertia
Do you know you can get a headache after sleeping too much? Or too little? The groggy feeling after waking up is termed sleep inertia, and sometimes a slight headache might accompany it. Naps might disturb your sleep cycle. Therefore, timing your naps to 20 or 90 minutes can help if this is the cause of your headache after a nap. - Sleep Apnea & Snoring
Snoring can also be the cause of a headache after a nap. You have abnormal breathing while snoring, which means that your blood is not getting the required oxygen. As a result, your head hurts after waking up. Similarly, sleep apnea patients might also suffer from morning headaches. - Poor Sleep Hygiene
Poor sleep hygiene can be a major reason for headaches after a nap. It looks like using the wrong pillow, uncomfortable positions, and other habits that prevent sound and healthy sleep. Thus, if you want to get a good sleep with no headaches, ask your doctor for guidance on healthy sleeping habits and what changes you need to make.
The Closing Word
Headache after a nap can be a cause of trouble. This is why you should consult your doctor on the lifestyle and sleeping hygiene changes you need to make. Moreover, if your headache persists after changes and just won’t go away, tell your doctor immediately. Our specialists at Nirvana Elite Sleep & Wellness can help. Just dial 832-952-1199 or visit our website for an appointment.