If you fall asleep within 15 vs in 2-3 minutes of lying down, here’s what it indicates

But what if you fall asleep almost instantly within 2 to 5 minutes?

This can be a warning sign, remarked Dr Saraf. “When someone sleeps the moment their head hits the pillow, it often suggests sleep deprivation. The body is trying to ‘catch up’ on lost sleep. This quick sleep onset is commonly seen in students, shift workers, or adults with demanding jobs,” said Dr Saraf.

Sometimes, it can indicate conditions like sleep apnea, restless sleep patterns, or excessive daytime tiredness. If you wake up feeling unrefreshed despite falling asleep quickly, it’s worth looking into further, said Dr Saraf.

Do you suffer from headaches? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

What health issues can be associated with speedy sleep onset?

– Chronic sleep debt: The brain is tired and shuts down quickly.
– Poor sleep quality: Frequent nighttime awakenings can lead to falling asleep faster the next night.
– Sleep apnea: Interrupted breathing disturbs deep sleep and increases daytime sleepiness.
– Mood disorders: Low mood and anxiety can disrupt sleep patterns, causing the body to shut down when you finally rest rapidly.
– High stress: Changes in cortisol levels can affect how alert you feel at bedtime.

When should someone seek medical advice?

If you fall asleep too fast and feel tired during the day, wake up with headaches, or if your partner notices loud snoring or pauses in breathing, it’s time to seek evaluation, said Dr Saraf. “A sleep assessment or simple lifestyle review can help determine if the issue is related to behaviour or an underlying medical condition,” added Dr Saraf.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.