Insomnia is “difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, or both” and it may be due to inadequate quality or quantity of sleep. Insomnia is not defined by a specific number of hours of sleep that one gets, since individuals vary widely in their sleep needs and practices. Although most of us know what insomnia is and how we feel and perform after one or more sleepless nights, few seek medical advice.

Causes

There is usually no single cause of insomnia, but there are a number of factors known to contribute, including:

* psychological health problems such as stress or anxiety
* physical health problems such as asthma or pain
* medicines like those taken for asthma, vertigo and depression
* jet lag (for more information see Related topics)
* environmental factors such as noise, an uncomfortable bed or being too hot or cold
* lifestyle habits, eg eating late at night, drinking alcohol or using stimulants such as nicotine

A lack of sleep may also increase the risk of certain health conditions including high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. If you need to recover from this disorder then you can find your solution here by clicking sleep disorder

Behavior therapy

Getting ready for bed means more than turning down the sheets. Sleep therapists know that there are many factors involved in a person’s ability to sleep well. Here are examples of therapies that help you develop habits and beliefs that will promote good sleep quality.

* Relaxation therapy may be successful for people with poor sleep habits who lie in bed with their minds racing. This therapy teaches progressive muscle relaxation, in which different muscle groups are tensed and relaxed, as well as attention-focusing techniques such as meditation, which can help stop sleep-disturbing habits.

* Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps you to recognize certain beliefs you hold about yourself and sleep, to change those beliefs that may contribute to unhealthy patterns, and to introduce positive behaviors that will help you create an inviting environment for sleep. Studies of cognitive-behavioral therapy’s effect on people with insomnia have shown good, lasting results in reducing interrupted sleep.8 For more information on positive thinking, see the topic Positive Thinking With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.

* Sleep hygiene measures are simple actions that address sleep habits and factors that may keep you from good sleep. For example, keep regular bedtimes and wake times-7 days a week-and try to avoid taking naps during the day.

Insomnia may be a symptom of another medical or psychological problem, which a patient may need to address first or at the same time. A person with insomnia needs a doctor’s attention if it lasts longer than three to four weeks, or sooner if it interferes with a person’s daytime activities and ability to function. You can find out out more detail information yahoo directory insomnia diseases

Filed under: Anti Snoring Devices

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!