Frequent awakenings during the night can be linked to a variety of factors, ranging from stress and acid reflux to heat in the bedroom. This was discussed by neurologist Stella Maris Valensi in an interview with Infobae.

According to the specialist, the most common cause of sleep disturbances is severe nervous tension. Stress disrupts the hormonal balance necessary for proper rest and also contributes to nightmares.

Among other possible causes, Valensi cited sleep apnea, urinary problems, acid reflux, excess weight in the abdominal area, colds, high air temperature, and age-related changes.

The doctor explained that during sleep, especially when lying down, stomach acid can flow into the esophagus. This causes a burning sensation in the chest, pain, coughing, and a sore throat, which can wake a person even during deep sleep.

Sometimes, you wake up without even realizing you have symptoms — your brain reacts to the irritation of the mucous membrane as a threat and wakes you up. This happens especially often after a big dinner, if you're overweight, or if your esophageal sphincter is weak.

With age, a person experiences natural changes in the regulation of circadian rhythms: the level of melatonin, the sleep hormone, decreases, and the duration of deep sleep phases decreases. Sensitivity to external and internal stimuli such as noise, the urge to urinate, heat, and discomfort also increases.

To improve sleep quality, neurologists recommend sticking to a regular routine — going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, avoiding overeating in the evening, giving up alcohol and gadgets in bed, engaging in physical activity, and monitoring the temperature in the bedroom.