|
|
 |
- Insomnia is defined as either
difficulty getting to sleep or difficulty remaining asleep.
The normal amount of sleep for an adult is eight hours. The
elderly often sleep less than this. Insomnia becomes a
problem if it causes fatigue during waking
hours.
|
 |
- Stress
- Depression
- Mania
- Caffeine
- Physical discomfort
- Daytime napping
- Alcohol abuse
- Heavy
smoking
|
 |
- Avoid all daytime sleeping including naps or TV snoozing. Often people who think they have Insomnia are actually napping during the day, and in so doing complete their sleep needs. Force yourself to stay awake to get back on cycle. Daytime exercise such as walking also helps with nighttime sleep.
- Relaxing activities -- such as reading a book before bed in order to keep the mind from "rehashing the day's activities"
- Avoid beverages containing caffeine after 2 PM in the afternoon. Limit total caffeinated beverages.
- Benadryl and similar antihistamines are helpful for some individuals.
- Benzodiazepines such as Serax or Ativan may be used on a short-term basis. Avoid long- term use.
- Ambien and similar medications help some individuals.
- Antidepressants that tend to make people drowsy (i.e., Trazadone) may be tried.
- Melatonin may help with "jet-lag" Insomnia.
|
| | |
If you want your friend to read or know about this article, Click here
 |
|
|
