How does smoking affect sleep quality?

Nicotine, which is a key component of tobacco products, has several effects on the body that can negatively impact sleep quality. It acts as a stimulant, which can lead to increased alertness and make it more difficult for individuals to fall asleep initially. Additionally, nicotine can interfere with the natural sleep cycle, disrupting the progression through the sleep stages, particularly REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, which is crucial for restorative sleep. As a result, smokers may experience fragmented sleep and a reduction in overall sleep quality. Studies have shown that individuals who smoke often report having poorer sleep quality compared to non-smokers.

The impact of smoking on sleep isn't merely anecdotal; extensive research links nicotine's stimulating effects to a variety of sleep disturbances, showing that smoking can lead to issues like increased insomnia, and reduced sleep efficiency, effectively leading to a diminished overall sleep experience.