The Sleep Thief: Insomnia

Do you find it difficult to get enough sleep? Do you wake up in the morning feeling that you were not refreshed with your night's sleep? If you answered in the affirmative then you're probably suffering from insomnia.

It has generally been accepted that enough sleep at night serves to give the body a few hours of rest and relaxation to prepare it for the next day's foray into varied activities. People who do not get enough sleep may become irritable or may have the urge to sleep at different times of the day to compensate for the sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep has also been connected to higher risks of accidents especially among motorists and to physical illness.

Insomnia may be transient, lasting only for a few nights; intermittent, occurring at times but not continuously; or chronic, happening almost every night for weeks on end. Although no single cause for insomnia can be pinpointed, certain possible causes can be determined. These causes include drinking too much alcohol or drinks with caffeine, eating at late hours, excessive smoking, health problems, certain medication, uncomfortable sleeping accommodations and mental or psychological stress. When a person with insomnia does not have any of these causes, then he/ she is most likely suffering from primary insomnia, a condition which needs expert help.

While medication has been an acceptable means to aid insomniacs, the possible resulting dependency has made the use of alternative treatments crucial. These alternatives are called sleep hygiene measures. Avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated drinks as well as smoking can do wonders for those who lack sleep. It is also suggested that insomniacs should try to avoid taking morning cat naps, eating rich late night snacks and worrying over mental or emotional concerns. It may also help to drink warm milk, take a warm bath and listen to calm music.