INSOMNIA is a medical word referring to “sleep disorder” expressing difficulty falling asleep, getting up too early and struggling to sleep again, or having a hard time to stay asleep.
Causes of insomnia:
- Nicotine (found in cigarettes)
- Caffeine(found in coffee, tea & energy drinks)
- Jet lag/work schedule
- Too hot/cold room
- Unhealthy lifestyle
- Medical conditions such as Diabetes, Asthma, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stress, anxiety, depression, and Thyroid disorders
- Some medications as Corticosteroids Blood pressure medications, and Cholesterol medications.
How can you manage it?
- Set up a regular bedtime & waking time
- Make sure your bedroom, pillows, and mattress are comfortable for sleep
- Exercise during the day but at least 5 hours before sleep
- Avoid eating large meals at least 3 hours before sleep
- Avoid/limit caffeine and nicotine consumption.
- Avoid napping during the day
- Medications/Therapy aiming the process: Panadol night (as it contains the antihistamine such as diphenhydramine), Melatonin tablets (which is a hormone produced by our brains at night), Lavender oil drops to be sprinkled on your pillow for relaxation.