Yawning — that simple act of opening your mouth wide, taking in a deep breath, and stretching your lungs — is something we all do, often without realizing it. But have you ever wondered why we yawn? On average, humans yawn about 20 times a day , and it’s contagious — seeing someone yawn or even reading about it might make you do it too (are you yawning yet?). Scientists have long been fascinated by this reflex because it’s seen not only in humans but also in over 25 species , including dogs, cats, birds, and even fish. Interestingly, studies suggest yawning may be linked to brain temperature regulation and alertness , not just tiredness. So next time you yawn, it might be your body’s way of keeping your brain cool and focused. What Exactly Is a Yawn? A yawn is a deep inhalation of air through an open mouth, followed by a slower exhalation. It’s often accompanied by stretching or tearing of the eyes. From a physiological point of view, yawning is controlled by the paravent...
Ever felt like you just can’t catch your breath, even while sitting still? You’re far from alone. Studies suggest that nearly 27% of adults experience dyspnea — the medical term for shortness of breath — at some point in their lives. While it’s normal to feel winded after a tough workout, frequent breathlessness can be a sign of something deeper, such as asthma, heart disease, or sleep apnea .The good news? With the right awareness, lifestyle changes, and even simple adjustments like choosing the right pillow, you can ease dyspnea and sleep — and breathe — more comfortably. Let’s break it down. What Is Dyspnea? Dyspnea (pronounced disp-nee-uh ) describes the sensation of struggling to breathe or feeling like you’re not getting enough air — even when your lungs are technically functioning fine. You might notice it while exercising, climbing stairs, or even lying flat in bed. Essentially, dyspnea is your body’s way of saying: “Something’s off with how I’m breathing.” Common Causes of D...