Is it a good idea to use caffeine or energy drinks to stay awake during the day?

My sleep schedule seems to be completely off. I have a hard time falling asleep at night and then I have a hard time staying awake during the day, which is a problem because I have to work during the day. Can I use caffeine or energy drinks to get me through the day in an effort to make sure that I am really tired at night when I go to bed? What would be the benefits or drawbacks of this plan?

Doctors Answers (1)

SomnoDiagnostics, Inc.
Answered on: 5/1/2014 1

The drawback of your plan is what if you have a sleep disorder that is causing your sleepiness? Energy drinks should be used with caution as they are known to be high in sugar, caffeine and other things with long names that can cause heart palpitations. Set a normal bedtime and arise time. Do not watch TV or use your tablet while in bed. If the daytime sleepiness persists, then speak with your primary care physician or board certified sleep specialist regarding your symptoms. They could be due to a sleep disorder. As with any health issue, you should try to determine and treat the cause, not the symptoms.