Difficulty sleeping is a common problem. If it happens occasionally then this is normal. However, when the inability to sleep persists it is usually an indicator of something more serious.
This is when it is called insomnia. Dealing with insomnia is not easy because it can severely affect your life. Here is a look at what you need to do to cope with insomnia.
How Much Sleep Do You Really Need?
Most adults need to sleep at least 7 to 8 hours sleep per night. As mentioned before there are times when all adults begin to experience some form of insomnia.
It may be due to stress and anxiety. However, this usually subsides in a few days or weeks. If the inability to sleep lasts for many months at a time, it is highly likely that you have developed insomnia.
The Symptoms of Insomnia
Insomnia brings with it a myriad of symptoms. Although some of them are more profound than others. Here’s a look at some of the major symptoms of insomnia.
- Inability to fall asleep
- Waking up in the middle of the night
- Tiredness during the day
- Waking up too early
- Limited ability to focus
- Irritability and anxiety
These are some of the most prevalent symptoms that you may encounter. There may be others as well based on how severe your insomnia is.
The Causes of Insomnia
There are many lifestyle choices that can contribute to insomnia. If you drink a lot of caffeinated beverages it could increase your chances of having insomnia. If you drink a lot of coffee you should start cutting back.
Smoking can also have an impact on your sleep. If you smoke a lot you should try to quit.
Many people have been using vaping to help them quit smoking. Do a search online to find the best vape kits to help you quit smoking.
Eating close to bedtime can also impact how well you sleep. Having a snack before you go to bed is fine. However, having large meals before you lie down in bed will make you uncomfortable.
You may experience heartburn if you eat too late. This will keep you awake.
Stress is also one of the major factors that can impact your sleep. Stress can come from work, finances, and family issues. If you find that these are overwhelming you, and preventing you from sleeping it is best to seek the help of a counselor to deal with these issues.
Medical conditions such as sleep apnea can also prevent you from sleeping well at night.
Tips for Preventing Insomnia
The best way to prevent insomnia is to be proactive about it. You need to keep your bedtime routine consistent. In this way, your body will get into a natural cycle.
Try to exercise and be active throughout the day. Physical activity helps to promote a good night’s sleep.
Ask your doctor to check if the medications that you are taking could be affecting your sleep. Finally, try to make your bedroom as comfortable as possible, the more uncomfortable it is, the more sleep you will get.