Sleep is the first thing that suffered. The sound never really stops. Trailers at odd hours, horns that feel unnecessary, engines roaring through the night. Even when I fall asleep, it’s never deep. I wake up tired, like my body didn’t fully rest.

Then there’s the air.

Some mornings, breathing feels heavier than it should. The dust, exhaust fumes, and constant movement on the road hang in the air. I wake up with a dry throat, a blocked nose, and sometimes a tight feeling in my chest. On bad days, I step outside and the smell of smoke and fuel hits immediately.

I didn’t realise how much my environment mattered until I started paying attention to how my body reacted daily. I clean more often because dust settles fast. I close my windows at night even when it’s hot. I’ve learned to take breaks from the area when I can, just to breathe properly and sleep better.

Living near the highway in Apapa has taught me that location matters more than convenience. It affects your health, your rest, and your quality of life.

If you live close to a major road and you’re constantly tired or struggling to breathe well, it might not be in your head.