Excessive Yawning: Here’s What It Could Mean For Your Health – News18
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Yawning is usually linked to tiredness or boredom, but excessive yawning may indicate a health issue.
Persistent yawning with dizziness, breathlessness, or extreme fatigue warrants medical attention.
Yawning is often associated with fatigue or boredom, serving as a way for the brain to stay engaged. However, if you’re yawning excessively throughout the day and night, it could signal an underlying health issue. Frequent yawning may be linked to medical conditions such as heart disease or mental health disorders. But when should it become a concern? If yawning is persistent and accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, shortness of breath, or extreme tiredness, seeking medical advice is advisable. In many cases, yawning occurs suddenly and without an obvious cause.
What Health Issues Can Excessive Yawning Indicate?
Frequent yawning could be a symptom of:
- Lack of sleep – Poor sleep quality or insufficient rest can increase yawning.
- Fatigue or mental exhaustion – Feeling drained or mentally unengaged can trigger excessive yawning.
- Heart conditions – The vagus nerve, which connects the brain to the heart and digestive system, may contribute to increased yawning in individuals with heart-related issues.
- Neurological disorders – In some cases, conditions like epilepsy may cause heightened yawning.
- Brain abnormalities – Although rare, excessive yawning could be a symptom of a brain tumor.
Is There a Connection Between Yawning, Iron Deficiency, and Oxygen Levels?
As reported by the Indian Express, Dr. Divya Gopal, Consultant – Internal Medicine at Sir HN Reliance Hospital, Mumbai, emphasises that iron plays a vital role in transporting oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are low, the body receives less oxygen, leading to increased yawning as a compensatory response. Yawning helps enhance oxygen intake and improve alertness. Additionally, medical conditions such as sleep apnea or chronic respiratory disorders can result in decreased oxygen levels, which may contribute to excessive yawning.
How to Manage Excessive Yawning at Home?
If excessive yawning is linked to lifestyle habits, a few simple adjustments may help:
- Improve Sleep Quality – Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a comfortable, relaxing environment for rest.
- Sleep Aids – Supplements like melatonin or prescribed medications may be recommended if necessary.
- Optimised Sleep Routine – Going to bed and waking up at the same time daily helps regulate sleep cycles.
- Boost Iron Intake – Incorporate iron-rich foods like leafy greens, apples, and berries to enhance oxygen circulation.
- Stay Hydrated – Ensure adequate water intake, as dehydration can mimic symptoms of fatigue and low iron.
- Stay Active – Regular exercise promotes better oxygen flow and overall well-being.
- Dietary Adjustments – Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bedtime can enhance restfulness.
- Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment – Keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet supports deeper, uninterrupted sleep.
- Limiting Screen Exposure – Removing electronic devices from the bedroom minimizes distractions and prevents blue light disruption.
While these remedies may reduce occasional yawning, persistent or unexplained excessive yawning should be discussed with a healthcare professional to rule out serious health concerns.
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