One of the most common yet enigmatic human actions is yawning. When we're bored, exhausted, or even just notice someone else yawning, we do it. Excessive yawning is usually innocuous, but occasionally it may indicate a medical problem. However, if you ever wonder what triggers yawning, and when should we begin to notice it? You have probably landed on the right page.
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant, Sharda Hospital - Noida, explained the science behind yawning and what causes us to yawn. Here is what he shared with us.
The Science Behind Yawning
The reflex action of yawning is extending the mouth wide, inhaling deeply, and then stretching. Yawning may have many purposes, such as:
1. Brain Cooling
According to some researchers, yawning aids in controlling the temperature of the brain. To ensure that an overheated brain operates at its best, a deep breath of air may help cool it down.
2. Oxygen Intake
According to Dr Srivastav, yawning improves alertness and cognitive function by raising blood oxygen levels and releasing carbon dioxide.
3. Social Bonding
Yawning also contributes to empathy and social communication, and it seems to be contagious. People are more likely to yawn after witnessing a close friend or relative yawn, according to studies.
Also Read: Ever Wondered Why Yawning Is Contagious? Here's The Reason
What Causes Us to Yawn?
Although yawning is a natural body function, it can occasionally be a sign of an underlying health issue if it occurs frequently or excessively—more than a few times per hour. Among the potential reasons are:
1. Fatigue and Sleep Disorders
As the body tries to stay awake and attentive, a lack of sleep, insomnia, sleep apnea, or other sleep disorders can cause more yawning.
2. Stress and Anxiety
As the body attempts to balance oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, stress can lead to abnormal breathing patterns, which may result in more frequent yawning.
3. Side Effects of Medication
Sleepiness and frequent yawning are side effects of some drugs, such as antidepressants and antihistamines.
4. Neurological Disorders
Because of their effects on brain function and thermoregulation, diseases like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and migraines have been related to excessive yawning.
5. Heart and Circulatory Problems
Excessive yawning has occasionally been linked to heart concerns, including vasovagal reactions, which can be a sign of problems with blood flow and circulation.
Also Read: Yawning While Exercising: Know Why Does It Happen?
When Is It Time to Get Worried?
Even though it's quite normal to occasionally yawn, you should see a doctor if you suffer from:
- Excessive yawning without a clear explanation (e.g., boredom or fatigue)
- Yawning with chest pain, loss of breath, or dizziness
- Yawning that gets in the way of everyday tasks or is connected to persistent exhaustion
Ways to Cut Down on Overdoing the Yawning
Dr Srivastav suggested thinking about making these lifestyle adjustments if yawning is interfering with your day-to-day activities:
- Improve sleep hygiene
- Handle stress
- Keep yourself hydrated
- Stay active
Bottomline
Although yawning is a normal and frequently helpful reaction, it could be worthwhile to look into it more if you find yourself yawning a lot. You can tell if your yawning is a harmless habit or an indication of something more serious by being aware of your body's cues. You can prevent excessive yawning and maintain your energy levels throughout the day by paying attention to your sleep, stress, and general health.