Why Are Some People A Light Sleeper ?

By Vanshika Gaur
28 May 2025, 21:00 IST

Have you ever noticed, some individuals may wake up at the slightest noises, like a chair screeching or a doorbell ringing? However, there are numerous reasons why some people are light sleepers. Tap to know !

Stress

High cortisol levels (stress hormone) can negatively affect sleep quality, as it keeps the mind in a state of ‘fight or flight’ mode, making one a light sleeper.

Reduced Sleep Spindles

Sleep spindles are bursts of activity that help block external stimuli and promote staying asleep. People with low sleep spindles may be light sleepers.

Medical Conditions

Medical conditions like arthritis, chronic back pain, hyperthyroidism, and other conditions can make it difficult to maintain deep sleep.

Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, melatonin, and more play a vital role in regulating sleep. However, hormonal imbalances can lead to lighter sleep.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnoea, restless leg syndrome, and others can make it hard to sleep, leading to frequent awakenings.

Information Credits

According to PubMed, people who are light sleeper are due to stress, anxiety, underlying medical conditions, and more. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised suggestions.