Introduction:
Many people find it difficult to sleep with cold feet, and the easiest solution they find to keep their feet warm is wearing a pair of socks. Sleeping with socks can be both bad and good. It has its own set of pros and cons. Some prefer sleeping with socks on so much that they have turned it into a habit, while some find it very unhealthy.
How Are Sleep and Body Temperature Related?
The core body temperature is affected by the biological clock, also known as circadian rhythm, which controls the timing of sleep. It also controls when a person feels sleepy at night or in the morning. Human body temperature rises during the day, reaching its peak in the afternoon when people feel most awake and alert, after which it gradually starts decreasing during the night, making people sleepy. When humans begin to fall asleep, the body temperature decreases by one to two degrees because then the body is conserving energy for other organs to function properly. If someone sleeps with their socks on, this might help in keeping the temperature at pace with the regulation cycles. Maintaining a good temperature in the body is necessary, which is why it is always suggested to keep the bedrooms cool.
Why Do Some People Prefer Sleeping With Their Socks On?
Socks definitely keep the feet warm, but apart from this, there are several other benefits related to it. Some are :
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Preventing Hot Flashes - Some women, especially those who are going through menopause, experience hot flashes with a sudden sensation of intense warmth going throughout their body, sweating, palpitations, and flushing of the face. They find wearing socks very helpful for decreasing their core body temperature.
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Improving Cracked Heels - Cracked heels can also be cured by wearing cotton socks after moisturizing since this prevents the cracks from drying out.
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Decreasing the Chances of Raynaud’s Attack - Raynaud's disease happens when the affected areas of the skin, especially the toes, and fingers, lose circulation and start throbbing or swelling. Wearing socks at night prevents this attack by keeping the feet warm and continuing proper blood circulation.
What Are the Adverse Effects of Wearing Socks While Sleeping?
Just the way there are two sides to a coin, sleeping with socks on can also not always be beneficial and prove to degrade health. Wearing very tight socks can disrupt blood circulation. Not maintaining proper hygiene of the socks can also result in adverse consequences. Maintaining proper foot hygiene is very important, and it can be compromised if the socks are not regularly cleaned or even if the socks are too tight. Socks that are made of synthetic materials like nylon also increase the risk of skin infections. Socks can also raise the temperature of the body excessively.
Who Should Avoid Wearing Socks During Sleeping?
According to doctors, not all people can wear socks to bed. Some people need to avoid wearing socks while going to bed, especially the ones with open wounds or abrasions in the legs or those people who have serious medical conditions like problems with blood circulation like arterial and venous disorders of the lower limb. People living in hot climates too should avoid wearing socks, or else the temperature of their body gets increased even more. People who are suffering from fungal infections should also not choose to wear socks because the skin needs air and light to heal, and a tight pair of socks can delay the healing process.
What Is the Way Out for People Who Are Adverse to Wearing Socks in Bed?
People who are not allowed to wear socks in bed can try the following options for proper peaceful sleep.
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They can take a proper warm foot bath before bedtime. This is the most relaxing thing to do before going to bed as it ensures a night of very good sleep.
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They can wear a warm pair of slippers before going to bed.
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They can sleep with a hot water bottle near their feet to keep themselves warm.
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They can take a warm bath one or two hours before bedtime.
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They can sleep while keeping the blanket over the foot of the bed.
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Remaining hydrated is very important. This leads to a greater flow of blood throughout the body.
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Smoking must be avoided because nicotine tightens the blood arteries, and less blood reaches the extremities.
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Standing or sitting in the same posture for a long time is also not suggested.
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A diet rich in protein and fat can also provide an extra boost.
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Wearing suitable boots for cold climates.
If someone is using heater socks, they must remember not to overheat them because that might burn the skin and also pose a potential fire hazard.
What Kind of Socks Can One Wear?
Socks that are made up of soft materials like merino wool or cashmere are the ones that should be worn. Individuals need to make sure that if they are wearing socks, they are not very tightly fitted because tight socks constrict circulation and do not properly warm the feet too. Compression socks should be avoided unless the doctor prescribes using them. Compression socks improve blood circulation by increasing blood flow but should not be worn to bed because they move blood flow away from the feet and block blood flow while lying down.
Is It Advisable for Children and Infants to Sleep With Socks On?
One should strictly avoid using electric blankets and heat socks if they have a kid or a baby. Infants and children can be given a nice warm bath before putting them in bed and then dressing their feet in pre-warmed socks. Parents should always keep checking if their baby or child is showing signs of overheating, excessive sweating, red flushed cheeks, or crying and fidgeting.
Conclusion:
Wearing socks is both good and bad, keeping in mind the type of environment individuals live in and the medical conditions they suffer from. Consulting a doctor in case one has circulatory problems causing pain and cold feet, even when it is warm, is always suggested.
