Sleep well, live well
How to Cure or Treat Insomnia
- Imtiaz Ahmad MD, MPH, FCCP
- Updated on: January 11, 2023
- January 11, 2023
- Insomnia, Sleep, Sleep & Health, Sleep & Lifestyle, Sleep Diagnostics
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
VK
OK
Digg
WhatsApp
Email
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, medical conditions, and certain medications. The treatment of insomnia depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition.
Insomnia can often be treated successfully with a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and therapy. Here are some general tips for managing insomnia:
Lifestyle changes:
- Establish a regular sleep schedule
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
- Make your sleep environment comfortable (dark, cool, and quiet)
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine close to bedtime
- Get regular exercise, but not close to bedtime
- Don't lie in bed awake; get out of bed and do a relaxing activity until you feel tired
- Avoid screens (phone, tablet, computer) for at least an hour before bedtime
Medication :
- Over-the-counter sleep aids: These may help you fall asleep, but they are not intended for long-term use and can have side effects.
- Prescription sleep medications: These may be recommended if other treatments have not been effective. These medications can be effective, but they can also have side effects and may be habit-forming.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I): This is a type of therapy that helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to your insomnia. It can be very effective in helping to improve sleep.
- Meditation can be an effective tool for improving sleep by helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and racing thoughts, which can interfere with sleep. It can also help to improve sleep quality and increase feelings of relaxation and well-being.
It is important to note that these sleep aids can have side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion, which may be more pronounced in elderly individuals. They can also interact with other sleeping pills that an individual may be taking. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of these sleeping pills with a healthcare professional before starting treatment.
To use meditation for sleep, you can try the following steps:
- Find a comfortable and quiet place to sit or lie down.
- Close your eyes and focus your attention on your breath.
- When your mind wanders, gently redirect your focus back to your breath.
- Continue this process for 10-20 minutes, or as long as you like.
It is important to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for you. It may take some trial and error to find the treatment or combination of treatments that work best for you.
About Allergy, Sleep & Lung Care
Allergy, Sleep & Lung Care is dedicated to improving and maintaining the health status of their patients by providing compassionate, top quality care. The respected practice provides excellence in patient care with the innovation that counts. The highly experienced team continues to provide a level of care and treatment that is unmatched on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Allergy Sleep & Lung Care is located at16420 HealthPark Commons Drive, Suite 100 Fort Myers, FL 33908, with a second location at 260 Beth Stacey Boulevard, Suite 220 Lehigh Acres, FL 33936.
