Daytime Drowsiness? Your Sleep Problem Could be Insomnia

Posted by Marcus Owen-Henson on 14 May 2010 filed in Insomnia Disorders

Have you got problems in getting off to sleep? Perhaps you wake at various times in the night and then have difficulty in dropping off again? Do you wake too early, or simply not feel refreshed in the morning? If there are no other factors affecting your sleep (such as young children or other health issues), these could be signs of insomnia.

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by the above symptoms. People with insomnia often suffer during the day from lack of sleep. This can then induce fatigue, sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability, all due to a reduced quality of night time sleep. A refreshing sleep is important and is characterized by the quality of sleep rather than the number of hours a person sleeps. The optimal number of hours of sleep a person needs each night varies from one person to the next. But interrupted, poor quality sleep can make a person tired and irritable, regardless of the total hours.

How many types of insomnia are there? Essentially, insomnia is a symptom of other issues. Other factors, such as stress, may cause insomnia, as can physical problems. People of all ages can suffer from insomnia, from young children to adults of all ages. Identifying the root cause is essential for developing effective treatment options. Remedies for insomnia can range from making environmental changes in one's daily life or sleeping area, to the use of prescribed medications. When medications are prescribed, it is usually for a short period of time.

A doctor or psychologist can determine if you have insomnia. The healing process will depend on each individual case. However, there are things you can do on your own to help ensure a better night's rest.

** Keep to a regular bedtime and awakening time throughout the week. Often people change their sleep arrangements on the weekends, but this can make a sleep problem worse.

** Use your bed only for sleep and sexual closeness. Avoid reading or eating in bed, watching TV, or engaging in other activities. This will help train your body to sleep when you go to bed.

** steer clear of stimulants such as caffeine for four to six hours before going to bed. Exercise can also act as a stimulant, so avoid exercising within four hours before retiring.

** Have a light snack before it's time for bed, but nothing heavy.

** Try to change arrange your life so that external stress making factors are kept in check. If you are concerned about something, or under a great deal of stress, sleep may be difficult.

These are only a few suggestions. Sleep specialists are able to work with you to determine specific causes of sleep disturbance. If there is concern of a physical problem, undergoing a sleep study can determine if you have apnoea or other sleeping issues. Consult your regular physician or make an appointment with an ear, nose, and throat doctor, or visit a sleep specialist. Sleep deprivation caused by insomnia can be problematic in your daily life. Determining the cause of sleep disorders and taking necessary actions to correct the problems can make a sizeable impact on your life.