Insomnia occurs when people have difficulty falling or staying asleep. Insomnia can have many negative effects on health, including an increased risk of depression.
It is important to understand that insomnia is not a cause, but a symptom. It is important to determine the root cause of insomnia in order to treat it. Diabetes and heart disease are two other causes of insomnia that require immediate attention.
You can try other methods to improve your sleep before consulting your doctor, but only after you have discussed your concerns with him.
- Exercise. Physical activity of 20 minutes per day or more, at least five hours before sleep, is a great way to help you fall asleep. It has proven to be the most effective way to improve sleep. Before starting a new exercise program, talk to your doctor about your sleep issues.
- Expose yourself to more sunlight. Melatonin, the sleep-regulating hormone produced by your body when exposed to sunlight, can be increased.
- Don’t Nap. Take a nap. Naps are good for you, they can increase your energy and clarity. Everyone is different. If you nap regularly, they may be affecting your sleep at night.
- Turn off the radio and TV. Many have a “crutch”, which is to fall asleep with a radio or TV on. While this may appear harmless, it can have a negative impact on your sleep quality and lead to more sleep issues.
If none of these remedies work, you doctor may prescribe medication to treat insomnia. It is not the first thing you should do, but in some cases it may be necessary. In those cases it can be a great help to those who suffer from insomnia.
