“Sleep is the golden chain that ties health and our bodies together.” – Thomas Dekker
A sleep disorder called insomnia affects a person’s capacity to go to sleep, stay asleep, or both. People who struggle with insomnia may find it difficult to fall asleep at night, wake up frequently through the night and struggle to fall back asleep, wake up too early in the morning, or have non-restorative sleep. Daytime fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and other symptoms that can affect daily life can result from insomnia.
Short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) insomnia is both possible. Stress, jet lag, or schedule changes are common causes of acute insomnia, which typically lasts for a few days or weeks. Contrarily, chronic insomnia lasts for at least three months and is frequently brought on by underlying medical issues like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, or sleep apnea.
Adult insomnia treatments that are available
The underlying cause of the sleep disorder will determine the best course of treatment for adults with insomnia. Here are some commonly used treatments:
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT):
This is a type of therapy that aims to alter unhelpful sleep-related beliefs and actions. Techniques like sleep restriction, relaxation training, and dealing with negative sleep thoughts may be used.
- Medications:
Numerous medications, including sedatives, hypnotics, and antidepressants, can be used to treat insomnia. However, these drugs should only be taken if a doctor is present to monitor you for any side effects.
- Sleep hygiene:
This involves making lifestyle changes to improve sleep, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
- Relaxation techniques:
Before going to bed, methods like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to relax the body and mind.
- Light therapy:
This entails exposure to bright light in order to control the circadian rhythm of the body, which can be beneficial for those who experience jet lag or shift work-related insomnia.
When should you act after learning that you have insomnia?
It’s crucial to take action if you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, wake up feeling tired or drained, struggle to concentrate, become irritable, or are sleepy during the day.
Additionally, it’s crucial to get medical assistance if your insomnia lasts for more than a few weeks or if it has a negative impact on your day-to-day activities, such as work, relationships, or your social life. Stress, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle choices are just a few of the causes of insomnia.
Cognitive behavioural therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications are all possible forms of treatment. If you are having trouble sleeping, don’t be afraid to get assistance because, with early treatment, insomnia can be kept from becoming chronic and harming your health and well-being.
Takeaway
So, once you realize you have insomnia, don’t be afraid to see a doctor. Your sleep disorders are what we at Anemed are here to assist you with. Consequently, you can contact us or visit our website to learn more about us.