Insomnia Cure Guide

Sleep Disorders

2010-04-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

Until the 1950s, most people thought of sleep as a passive, dormant part of our daily lives. We now know that our brains are very active during sleep. Some scientists evidently said that during sleep your brain consolidates and organizes memories of what you have seen and done during your day. When these memories are merged and organized, you will able to access the information that is required for you to solve any particular task.

Sleep disorders account for an estimated $16 billion in medical costs each year, while the indirect costs due to lost productivity and other factors are probably much greater. Doctors have described more than 70 sleep disorders, most of which can be managed effectively once they are correctly diagnosed.

In addition to affecting quality of life (including excessive daytime sedation, physical, psychological, cognitive problems affecting overall health), sleep disorders have been implicated with an increased mortality rate. According to the National Institutes of Health, 50 to 70 million Americans are affected by chronic sleep disorders and intermittent sleep problems that can significantly diminish health, alertness and safety.

Untreated sleep disorders have been linked to hypertension, heart disease, stroke, depression, diabetes and other chronic diseases. Sleep problems can take many forms and can involve too little sleep, too much sleep or inadequate quality of sleep.

The Reality About Sleep Disorders

If you eat well and exercise regularly, yet still frequently feel tired, then the quality of your sleep may be to blame. Millions of people in the United States suffer from sleep disorders but don't realize that they have the condition. In many cases, sleep medicine isn't enough to treat their illness. Some sleep disorders need to be treated by a recognized sleep disorder center, but how can you tell if a bout of insomnia is really a symptom of something more problematic?

There are over one hundred different types of sleep disorders that can be classified into four categories. Insomnias include difficulty falling and staying asleep. Narcolepsy and sleep apnea are examples of sleep disorders that prevent people from staying awake. People suffering from jet lag or those who have trouble sleeping because of shift work are having a disturbance in their sleep/wake cycle. People who experience sleepwalking or enuresis are experiencing sleep interruptions associated with behavioral problems. Any condition in which your sleep doesn't follow the typical sleep phase cycle or doesn't stay in each cycle for a sufficient period of time is a disruptive sleep disorder.

Those who have disrupted sleep tend to not experience "restorative sleep." Sleep deprivation can make you irritable, tired, have less focus, a lower frustration level, and can lead to exhibiting behavior that's more emotional and impulsive. One dangerous fact about sleeping disorders is that they weaken the immune system and make us more susceptible to other diseases like diabetes, cancer and even the common cold. It is not uncommon for people who suffer from sleep deprivation due to sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy and insomnia to also suffer from other problems including diabetes, asthma or a second sleep disorder.

When gaining insight about sleep disorders, you will find that no one is immune. Many elderly people suffer from insomnia and often have to be put on medication for the condition. Some of the common sleep disorders that affect children include night terrors, nightmares and bedwetting. Nearly seventy percent of women report that they suffer from some type of sleep disorder. Similarly, over forty percent of women admit that daytime sleepiness disrupts their daily activities. Although menopausal and pregnant women are far more likely to suffer from a sleep disorder, women are two times more likely than men to experience a malady of this kind.

Almost everyone suffers from a sleep disorder at some time, but ignoring a persistent problem could result in serious health problems. Recovery may include a lifestyle change or altering your sleep habits. Talk to your doctor about sleep disorders and find out more about the variety of treatments available. A good night of sleep can improve both your health and your quality of life.

Sleep Disorder is a serious health problem. If you want to read more articles about Sleep Disorder Treatments, please feel free to visit http://www.eHealthyTips.com

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Adrenal Fatigue - A Common and Curable Source of Insomnia

2010-04-14T14:52:00.000-07:00

Sleeping problems are epidemic in our society. Just watch late night television and count the commercials for the latest and greatest insomnia medications. Do you think those medications actually address the cause of the problem?

The biggest problem with insomnia medications is the heavy side effects that they carry. Don't believe me? Just take a look at the fine print in an insomnia ad appearing in a magazine. You will notice that they have to buy an extra page of ad space just to list all of the side effects. Does that sound like something that should be taken long term or at all?

If you suffer from insomnia you need to find a doctor that is going to explore the causative reasons and ask the question why? Why can't you fall asleep? Why can't you stay asleep? Or why can't you sleep altogether? It is only when the actual mechanism for your problem is discovered, that you can get a real, lasting, solution to your insomnia. An easy way to judge how well your doctor is doing with your insomnia, is to consider how hard he is working to uncover the source of your problem. Did you mention your difficulty sleeping and immediately get a prescription for an insomnia medication? Do you think they really tried to uncover the reason why? Does it make sense to take a potentially harmful medication, loaded full of side effects, when there may be an actual solution to your problem?

In a large number of insomnia cases, the underlying problem is directly related to blood sugar imbalances, in particular to adrenal function. The adrenal glands are two small glands located above the kidney, which secrete hormones that help the body stabilize blood sugar. The main hormone secreted that is related to blood sugar is cortisol.

If you have adrenal hyper function, you will experience an inability to fall asleep. With adrenal fatigue, the symptom is exactly opposite; you can fall asleep, but can't stay asleep. In both scenarios, adrenal hyper function and adrenal fatigue, if the adrenal dysfunction is not dealt with directly, then you will continue to suffer with insomnia.

With adrenal fatigue, your body does not produce enough cortisol to keep blood sugar levels steady as you go through your nightly fast (we all go through a typical 8-10 hour fast when we sleep). As blood sugar levels start to drop during the middle of the night, normally your adrenal glands secrete cortisol to help push blood sugar levels back up. That is normal. That is what's supposed to happen. If your glands cannot produce enough cortisol to keep your blood sugar levels maintained, you will shift to a backup system, which is the release of epinephrine and nor epinephrine. These hormones are Central Nervous System stimulants and will wake you up. This is why you may seem to wake up, wide awake, at the same time every night.

The adrenal hyper function patient, has higher than normal cortisol levels at bed time. This will keep you from falling asleep, because higher than normal cortisol levels as you are trying to fall asleep, will prevent you from falling into a normal sleep pattern. In either case it is important to look at all the factors that contribute to adrenal fatigue and hyper activity. An insomnia medication will never fix the core problem in this example. This very scenario I just described to you is very common. There are many factors that must be considered including circadian rhythm of cortisol release, lifestyle factors, emotional stress, food sensitivities, among other things. There is no one size fits all treatment for this syndrome but you can have success and conquer your insomnia if you find a doctor who takes a comprehensive, all natural, big picture approach, to this modern day plague called Adrenal Stress Syndrome.

As a matter of caution, if your doctor immediately wants to prescribe cortisol replacement, I would consider getting a second opinion if I were you. This is not a simple matter of replacing low cortisol, in fact is may further prevent your body from producing your own cortisol. All mechanisms must be considered, and a comprehensive approach that restores function and feedback loops is the only way to make lasting change, and restore proper sleep patterns. Remember always ask, "why is this happening?" Work with a doctor who is willing to work hard for you.

The Boydston Institute, founded by Dr. Robert Boydston, specializes in the comprehensive, all natural treatment of Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome. His Adrenal Fatigue Recovery Program is sought by patients all over the country.
To learn more about the Boydston Institute visit: http://www.drboydston.com/what_makes_us_different.html
Dr. Robert Boydston is a Board Certified Doctor of Chiropractic, and a national leader in Natural Autoimmune, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, and Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome treatment.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Robert_Boydston

Insomnia Side Effects

2010-03-05T13:59:00.000-08:00

The Shocking Truth About Effects of Insomnia

If you're worried about your insomnia, you're probably also worried about insomnia side effects. Insomnia is a really unpleasant problem itself, since it's a horrible feeling to never be able to relax after working all day, and to never feel rejuvenated after a night of sleep.

Side effects of insomnia can be short term or long term depending on the cause. They can last for as little as a month or so, or continue for a long period of time. The lack of sleep can be harmful to living a healthy life. Sleep disorders can bring about a number of issues besides causing you to feel unhealthy.

Short Term Effects

Things such as feeling tired and lethargic without use of stimulants like caffeine, irritability and drowsiness. That's just the short term.

Performances: Those who are suffering from insomnia find it difficult to do even the simplest things of everyday life. Holding a cup or writing a check seems to be a very heavy task for them. They lack concentration and become sluggish. They may feel bad about their actions but just cannot control it. Performances become worse along with the severity of insomnia.

Safety: Driving and operating machines become difficult for those people who are lack of sleep and this is not a safe thing. Fatal accidents can happen which may not only cause injury to him but to others also.

Long Term Effects
The long terms effects are far worse. From a medical standpoint, you risk serious depression if you have insomnia for a long time. Not just that but there is a large body of evidence that suggests that you can do yourself cumulative damage to your organs and circulatory systems.

Psychological: Other than personality changes, you will find psychological changes as well in those suffering from insomnia. Depression is the most common thing that you will observe in almost all of them. Depression may also cause insomnia so it is advisable to consult with a doctor. They often feel hopeless and dissatisfied and sometimes this leads to suicide in severe cases.

Health: Health of a person is really affected by insomnia. These people are prone to illness and infection as lack of sleep weakens immune system. They often feel very tired, fatigued, energy levels reduced and reflexes slowed. The rate of metabolism is slowed down due to lack of sleep. When insomnia becomes severe, they may even experience hallucinations, heart problem and stomach burns. A growing number of people who suffer from insomnia also suffer from heart disease. A lack of sleep can also be characterized by frequent and very painful headaches. This is one of the most widespread insomnia side effects and results for many to reach for pain relievers as a solution.

Social Effects

The effects aren't just medical either. Relationships and marriages have broken down due to someone's sleep habits. Appointments are cancelled and friendships never seem to be maintained the way they were.

Personality: The most noticeable effect of insomnia is in personality. Those who are suffering from insomnia will burst out over something that isn't even a big deal and they become more irritable. This change in personality due to insomnia depends on the person and length of sleep that has been disrupted. Sometimes the effects of insomnia destroy personal relationships. No one wants to be around the person because of his attitude and behavior.

To find out more about insomnia side effects visit Insomnia Relief Almanac

Natural Sleep Cycle

2010-02-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

What is Sleep?

Sleep is one of the body`s most mysterious processes. The most significant of sleep facts which differentiates it from the waking state is the interruption of perception. A sleeping person does not see or hear. Additionally, sleep is marked by decreased movement of the skeletal muscles, slowed-down metabolism, and complex and active brain wave patterns.

There are two major types of sleep: rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep:

Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. It comes and goes throughout the night, and makes up about one fifth of our sleep time. During REM sleep, our brain is very active, our muscles are very relaxed, our eyes move quickly from side to side and we dream.

Non-REM sleep. The brain is quiet, but the body may move around. Hormones are released into the bloodstream and our body repairs itself after the wear and tear of the day.

There are 4 stages of non-REM sleep:

Pre-sleep - the muscles relax, the heart beats slower and body temperature falls.
Light sleep - we can still be woken easily without feeling confused.
Slow wave sleep - our blood pressure falls, we may talk in our sleep or sleep walk.
Deep "slow wave" sleep - we become very hard to wake. If we are woken, we feel confused.

We move between REM and non-REM sleep about five times throughout the night, dreaming more as we get toward the morning. During a normal night, we will also have short periods of waking. These last 1 or 2 minutes and happen every 2 hours or so. We aren't usually aware of them. We are more likely to remember them if we feel anxious or there is something else going on - noises outside, our partner snoring.

How Much Sleep Do You Need?
The amount of sleep each person needs depends on many factors, including age. Some people find that they only need 5-6 hours of sleep, while others need 10-11 hours for optimal performance. The average adult functions best with 7-8 hours of sleep a night. However, it is important to consider how much sleep you need on an individual basis. The signs of inadequate sleep (lack of REM sleep) are low energy levels, drowsiness, irritability, and poor concentration.

Infants and Children. Infants require about 16 hours a day. From 6 months to about 3 years, childrenТs sleep requirement decreases to about 14 hours. Young children generally get their sleep from a combination of nighttime sleep and naps. Children need much more sleep than adults. Growth hormones are released during sleep, so sleep is vital to proper physical and mental development. Tired children are often cranky, fussy and become easily frustrated and difficult.
Teenagers. Teenagers need about 9 hours of sleep a night. Sleep is crucial for teenagers because it is while they are sleeping that their bodies release a hormone that is essential during their growth spurt.
Adults. For most adults, 7 to 8 hours a night appears to be the best amount of sleep, although the amount ranges from 5 hours to 10 hours of sleep each day depending on the individual.
Pregnant Women. Women in the first trimester of pregnancy, and sometimes throughout pregnancy, need significantly more sleep than usual.

Sleep is an important factor in all our lives. Sleep helps the body restore and rejuvenate in many different ways. Sleep enables the brain to encode new information and store it properly. REM sleep activates the parts of the brain that control learning. The parts of the brain that control emotions, decision-making and social interactions slow down dramatically during sleep, allowing optimal performance when awake.

Sleep enables the immune system to function effectively. Without proper sleep, the immune system becomes weak and the body becomes more vulnerable to infection (flu and cold) and disease. During sleep muscle tissue is rebuilt and restored.

To find out more about Lack of REM sleep visit Insomnia Relief Almanac

Insomnia Causes

2010-02-08T10:53:00.000-08:00

Having Trouble Sleeping? What Causes Your Insomnia?

The causes of primary insomnia are environmental influences that a person may encounter and are not related to other health conditions. In contrast, secondary insomnia is related to other issues such as health conditions, chronic pain, medication or other substances one is consuming, like alcohol.

The causes of primary insomnia are most often related to irregular conditions in a person’s day-to-day life experiences. Significant stress from life can cause trouble sleeping.

Chronic insomnia is related to other underlying conditions such as depression or anxiety, pain or discomfort during the night or chronic stress.

Illness, physical strain or medications may disrupt a person’s sleep cycle for a period of time as well. Some medications can lead to insomnia, including those taken for:
colds and allergies

high blood pressure

heart disease

thyroid disease

birth control

asthma

pain killers

depression (especially SSRI antidepressants)

5 Reasons You Can Not Sleep at Night

In order to successfully treat symptoms of sleeping disorders it is necessary to understand the reason behind each individuals inability to sleep. This article lists the 5 most common causes of insomnia, and outlines the appropriate resolution for each cause.

Cause #1 - Food And Drink

Food and drink, particularly during the evening hours, can have a profound effect on the ability of an individual to fall asleep at night. Common reasons include eating foods with large amounts of either proteins (for example meats) or processed sugars (cakes, candy bars) later in the day. Conversely, carbohydrate-rich foods in moderation at night can often aid sound sleep. These often contain 'tryptophan' a substance which triggers the brain to produce sleep-inducing chemicals. Drinks containing caffeine such as coffee and some sodas can have a profound effect on your ability to fall asleep, these should be avoided late in the day where possible.

Cause #2 - Exercise And Lifestyle Choices
Healthy lifestyle choices and regular exercise are great methods of assuring yourself a successful nights rest. However, it is possible that exercise can have the opposite effect - if this is too close to your bed-time. Exercising actually releases stimulating brain chemicals which may prevent sleep onset. Ensuring that you complete any exercise 3 hours before bed will avoid any issues.

Cause #3 - Your Sleeping Environment
This is a complex area and potentially involves many interacting factors including temperature, noise and the comfort of your bedding. A common cause of insomnia symptoms is not having enough natural space to twist and turn in the night. Blocks or objects in your bed can cause disruption to the natural sleeping cycle that can have lasting effects into the next day. The ideal sleeping environment is cool, dark, quiet and has comfortable bedding and pillows.

Cause #4 - The Contrary Effects Of Alcohol

Alcohol is actually a sedative, this will relax you and is considered an aid to falling asleep at night. However, this substance has a negative overall effect and can actually be a common cause of reported sleep disorders. The reason is that the sleep you get after drinking alcohol is of lower quality than without. This can leave you tired the next day, which leads to compensatory behaviors including higher caffeine intake and napping. Both of these then lead to sleeping problems - starting a 'vicious circle' of behavior which is detrimental to quality sleep.

Cause #5 - Anxiety, Stress And Worry
Financial, family and work worries can often lead to sleeping problems. The effects of this can work in various ways, leading to stress symptoms which change your brain-chemistry or just leading to a 'busy mind' at night which stops you falling asleep. The main treatment of these psychologically induced insomnia symptoms is to address the underlying causes. Where this is not immediately possible then keeping a notepad by your bed side and jotting down those worries can go a long way towards helping.

For comprehensive yet clear guides to common sleep disorders and the most effective natural treatments, check our the quality articles at: Cures For Sleeping Problems
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geoff_Brown

Insomnia Facts

2010-02-06T08:21:00.000-08:00

What Is Insomnia?

Insomnia, which is Latin for "no sleep," is the inability to fall asleep or remain asleep. Insomnia is also used to describe the condition of waking up not feeling restored or refreshed. Insomnia refers to the inability to get the amount of sleep you, as an individual, need to wake up feeling rested. Some people with insomnia may fall asleep easily but wake up too soon. Other people may have the opposite problem, or they have trouble with both falling asleep and staying asleep.

The majority of researchers recommend that grownups need to sleep between six and eight hours nightly. Many people, however, are unable to accomplish this. Up to 20 million people in the United States alone have serious difficulty sleeping nightly.

Insomnia is a term used to describe several types of sleeplessness. With insomnia, you experience a significant lack of sleep on a regular or frequent basis. Insomnia usually takes one or more of the following forms:

Difficulty falling asleep - more common among young people.

Difficulty maintaining sleep (sleeping lightly and restlessly, waking often, lying awake in the middle of the night) - more common in people over 40. In younger people it may be associated with depression.
Waking early and being unable to get back to sleep - this is more common in older people and anyone worrying about something in particular.

There are two broad insomnia categories:
Chronic insomnia - lasting for several weeks, months or even years.
Transient insomnia - lasting for a few nights or weeks only, usually connected to a stressful event.

Insomnia is also classified into primary and secondary insomnia.
Primary insomnia is insomnia that is not caused by other health problems. This is the most common type of insomnia.
Secondary insomnia is a symptom of another underlying condition that causes the insomnia. When you receive effective treatment for the underlying condition, the insomnia usually goes away.

The end result is poor-quality sleep that doesn’t leave you feeling refreshed when you wake up. Insomnia can cause excessive daytime sleepiness and a lack of energy. Long-term insomnia can cause you to feel depressed or irritable; have trouble paying attention, remembering and learning; and not do your best on the job or at school. Insomnia also can limit the energy you have to spend with friends or family. Women and the elderly are the most common targets of this sleep disorder.

People tend to sleep more lightly and for shorter time spans as they get older, although they generally need about the same amount of sleep as they needed in early adulthood. About half of all people over 65 have frequent sleeping problems, such as insomnia, and deep sleep stages in many elderly people often become very short or stop completely.

Insomnia Types

2009-11-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

Types of Insomnia - Are You Sure You Don't Have It?

Insomnia is not defined by the number of hours of sleep a person gets or how long it takes to fall asleep. Individuals vary normally in their need for, and their satisfaction with sleep. There are several general types of insomnia:

• Difficulty falling asleep (sleep-onset insomnia): Commonly, people have difficulty falling asleep when they cannot let their minds relax and they continue to think and worry. Sometimes the body is not ready for sleep at what is considered a usual time for sleep. That is, the body's internal clock is out of sync with the earth's cycle of light and dark. This problem (a type of circadian rhythm sleep disorder) is common among adolescents and young adults.

• Difficulty staying asleep (sleep maintenance insomnia): Older people are more likely to have difficulty staying asleep than are younger people. People with this type of insomnia fall asleep normally but wake up several hours later and cannot fall asleep again easily. Sometimes they drift in and out of a restless, unsatisfactory sleep.

• Early morning awakening: This type may be a sign of depression in people of any age.

The Many Different Types of Insomnia

Insomnia actually describes the symptoms of disturbed sleep - rather than an illness in itself. This is usually defined by the duration of the insomnia symptoms and the underlying causes. This article lists 5 common types of insomnia to help you better understand this common condition.

Type #1 - Transient Insomnia

This is the most common type and the one suffered by some 58% of adults at some point in our lives. Transient insomnia is defined as having symptoms which last up to one week. This can be triggered by a whole host of factors ranging from jet-lag through to medication or even short-term stresses and worries. While transient symptoms are uncomfortable, there are many short-term treatments for them including relaxation techniques and natural remedies. The key is to ensure that any symptoms do not become self-perpetuating after a transient episode - for example by starting a pattern of napping or using caffeine to keep you awake during the evenings.

Type #2 - Short-Term Insomnia

Symptoms that last between one and three weeks are classified as 'short-term' insomnia. This is usually long enough for the disturbed sleep itself to become a concern - with the associated risk that this can add to the symptoms themselves. Stress and anxiety-induced problems with falling asleep often fall into this category. While the best treatments involve addressing the underlying factors there are several more techniques available. These include making a proper assessment of your sleeping environment and evening eating habits and also ensuring that lifestyle factors - including health and exercise are not a cause.

Type #3 - Chronic Insomnia

The most debilitating type of insomnia is labelled as 'Chronic'. This is defined as continuous symptoms which last for more than 3 weeks. At this point it is usually advised that sufferers seek professional medical advice. In addition to this there are several home-based treatments possible including keeping a sleeping diary, which will help to identify any patterns or adverse factors in your evening and bed-time routines. While drugs often relieve the symptoms of chronic insomnia temporarily, these do carry the potential twin risks of addiction and building tolerance.

Type #4 - Mental Illness Insomnia

Here we move to a longer lasting category of symptoms which are associated with either depression and changes in brain chemistry associated with other mental illnesses. Examples of conditions which are commonly accompanied by mental illness insomnia are schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder (known as manic-depressive disorder). The treatment of the insomnia symptoms in these cases needs to be supervised by a medical professional, especially where this involves medication which may have a cross-effect on medications for the underlying condition itself.

Type #5 - Fatal Familial Insomnia

The final type on insomnia is thankfully extremely rare. It is actually a genetically inherited condition cased by a mutant protein and is always fatal between 7 and 36 months after first symptoms are shown. While there is a 50 / 50 chance that the child of an 'carrier' parent will inherit this condition, it is not until middle-age that most patients show symptoms - with the average onset being around 50. Insomnia becomes increasingly marked once this begins, leading to the complete inability to sleep and eventually death. Fortunately, the main gene responsible has only been identified in 28 families worldwide.

For comprehensive yet straightforward information on sleeping disorders, insomnia treatments and great tips for better sleep - click now to visit the number #1 dedicated insomnia information portal: Best Insomnia Treatment
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geoff_Brown

Insomnia Symptoms

2009-11-11T10:40:00.000-08:00

Insomnia symptoms vary by individual .There is various causes, ranking from environmental, to psychological, to physical. Any given insomnia symptom can stem from one or more of these factors. However, there are a few easily recognized symptoms and signs that lend themselves to a diagnosis of insomnia.

5 Symptoms of Insomnia you should be looking for:

Symptom #1: Difficulty falling asleep.

Insomniacs lie in bed for hours in frustration, tossing and turning. Because of the poor quality of sleep they are tired for most of the day.

Symptom #2: Frequent wake ups.

Insomniacs tend to wake up in the middle of the night and they are not able to go back to sleep. If they do manage to go back to sleep, it is often unsatisfying.

Symptom #3: Wake up too early.

It is called terminal insomnia. Many people with terminal insomnia have no trouble getting to sleep when they go to bed. They have little trouble staying asleep either. They just wake up too early in the morning.

Symptom #4: Reverse sleeping pattern.

Insomniacs have a hard time staying away during the day. They tend to take naps, but they still end up with little or poor quality sleep during the night.

Symptom #5: Feeling Anxious And Depressed.
Anxiety and depression is another of the main symptoms of insomnia with nine out of every ten sufferers suffering with one or the other.

5 Signs of Insomnia you should be looking for:

Sign #1: Irritability
You may be irritable because of your insomnia condition. It's not that any one particular person is annoying you; it's just that everyone and everything around is an annoyance.

Sign #2: Poor Memory
You can recall events that have happened, but you can't get into any sort of specifics about said events. It's as though there are pieces missing from your memory. It's more of a "I remember, but I don't really remember" kind of feeling. This is definitely one of the most annoying signs of insomnia.

Sign #3: Tiredness

This isn't your normal kind of tired. This is a sincere feeling of exhaustion and not wanting to do anything but sit on your couch and relax. If this feeling is always present, there is a good chance you have insomnia.

Sign #4: Lack of Concentration
You can do basic tasks and have short conversations with people, but you're only partly "there". In other words, you're not at all focused on the task at hand, whether that be working on your project or having a conversation with a friend. To sum it up: the lights are on, but no one is home.

Sign #5: Impaired Reaction Time
Everything you do, it will be as though you are in slow motion. This is one of the most severe signs of insomnia, as it not only impairs your physical reaction time, but it also impairs your mental reaction time as well.

When It May Be Not Insomnia

As we age, our sleep tends to become lighter and last shorter. This is why elderly people often find themselves tossing and turning in bed in the middle of the night or in the early morning hours. As we grow older, our body tend to have a lower physical need for sleep, but most elderly people believe that they must sleep a certain amount of time. Thus, their sleeplessness is not really insomnia, but their body actually telling them it does not need more sleep and rest than it already had.

To find out more about insomnia visit Insomnia Relief Almanac

Insomnia Video Clip - Herbal Potions

2009-11-05T18:26:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - Relaxation

2009-11-05T18:19:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - Beat Jet-Lag

2009-11-05T18:12:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - Eat to Sleep

2009-11-05T18:03:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - The Power of Daylight

2009-11-05T17:58:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - Sleep Cycle

2009-11-05T17:50:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - How to stop Snoring

2009-11-05T17:43:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - When to Nap

2009-11-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - Sleep Restriction

2009-11-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Video Clip - Bath Before Bedtime

2009-11-05T16:18:00.000-08:00

Depression and Insomnia

2009-11-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

Are you depressed? Do you have insomnia? Have you ever wondered whether there is a connection between the two? Troubled sleep has been considered a hallmark of depression. At least 80% of depressed people experience insomnia. About 15% of depressed people sleep excessively, and early morning awakening has also been linked to depression. One study found that the group of people most likely to suffer from their first time of depression were those who woke up several times throughout the night but then went back to sleep (middle insomnia). Researchers are now beginning to recognize insomnia and depression as two distinct disorders interacting with one another. And when the two co-exist, addressing the insomnia may be of considerable help in accelerating the treatment of depression.

It turns out that the sleep patterns of depressed people are different from normal people. Depressed people fall quickly into REM sleep (which is when we dream); and for them, this phase of sleep is unusually long and intense. Evidently something about dreaming is important to depression but we don't clearly know what that would be. Since REM sleep is involved with consolidating emotional memories it is possible that the intense activation of REM sleep in depressed people causes the over-consolidation of negative memories so that the depressed person is prone to remembering negative feelings and events. According to sleep researcher Michael Perlis, "There's something wrong with the memories that depressed people are consolidating and the way that the REM system is mood-regulating." It is also possible that since psychologists have long suggested that we work out problems in our dreams, lacking the opportunity to imagine solutions in our sleep makes it more difficult to resolve problems when we're awake.

Insomnia may even be an early warning sign of depression. Studies done by Michael Perlis have shown that insomnia seems to precede depression episodes by about 5 weeks. Sleep problems may actually set in motion several forces in the nervous system that bring on an episode of depression.

The sleep problems connected to depression might be the body's attempt to correct itself. Apparently in some depressed people, insomnia actually has an antidepressant effect. There has been evidence that staying awake for extended periods improves the functioning of the serotonin system, and maybe the dopamine system too. Both serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters that have been linked to depression.

It may be that insomnia may begin as the body's attempt to enhance serotonin production and to dampen the hyper arousal created by the chronically activated stress system of depressed people. Once insomnia starts, however, people experience frustration and anxiety about falling asleep, and they do things like drinking, napping, or changing sleep patterns; which wind up perpetuating the insomnia so it becomes a problem in its own right. Insomnia leads to fatigue, irritability, memory and concentration problems, loss of interest in activities etc. Fatigue makes it difficult to function and often creates pessimism. In other words, the insomnia leads to depression. Because it disrupts the brain and is a stressor in it's own right, sleep loss renders people even more vulnerable to depression and precipitates episodes of it. So the depression is actually secondary to the insomnia.

The current thinking is that treating the insomnia may delay an episode of depression or at least stop it from becoming chronic. Maybe if we focus on curbing the insomnia associated with depression, then the depression will go away too. Studies done by David Morawetz, as well as others support this idea. Morawetz found that for many people who suffer from both depression and insomnia, treating the insomnia successfully without medication did indeed eliminate or significantly reduce the depression. Doctors have been noticing that often when a patient's depression is cured, the insomnia still remains. Residual insomnia has been associated with a higher risk of relapsing into depression. It seems that when patients have major depression combined with insomnia, treating both problems individually but simultaneously may create a synergy for curing both.

According to Dr. Andrew D. Krystal, M.D., of Duke, "If you have a depression patient who has insomnia, it's very important to treat that insomnia. If you just treat the depression, many times the insomnia doesn't get better, and the outcome is not as good in terms of both depression and sleep." He reported of his study, "Co-therapy led to an enhancement of the antidepressant response that was not sleep-item specific but evident across the range of depression symptoms, and affected an increasing number of aspects of depression over time for at least 10 weeks." Dr Kumar Budur notes that "we’ve seen that when patients are treated for depression and insomnia simultaneously, the patient tends to get better faster—and they tend to stay better for a longer time.”

It seems that depression and insomnia, while being two separate disorders, do interact with each other. There does seem to be a connection between the two. The American Psychiatric Association has quoted a study in which people with insomnia were nearly 10 times more likely to have depression and over 17 times more likely to have anxiety than people without insomnia. So, if you are depressed and also have insomnia, it would be a good idea to be treated for both. Maybe once you start sleeping better, your depression will go away faster and easier.

Tracy Crowe has had both insomnia and depression most of her life.
For information about sleeping problems, visit http://problemsleepinginfo.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tracy_Crowe

Insomnia Quiz

2009-11-01T17:03:00.000-08:00

The "Do I Have Insomnia" Quiz

Is the question of "do I have insomnia?" constantly twirling around in your head? Are you worried that you, like millions of others, are going to have deal with long term insomnia symptoms? Well, if you are, it may be time to take the "do I have insomnia" quiz". This short questionnaire should help you determine if you are indeed afflicted by some form of insomnia or sleep disorder.

Identify Insomnia Questionnaire...

1. My Job Entails...

A) A lot of physical activity.

B) Quite a bit of mental thinking.

C) Sitting at a computer all day long.

If you answered B or C, then exercise could be a factor in your lack of sleep. Studies show that when a person does exercise throughout the day, the body tends to get to sleep more easily, as there is no built up energy that needs to be dispensed.

2. Before Bed I...

A) Watch an hour or more of TV
B) Read a few chapters of my favorite book
C) Write down my problems on a piece of paper

Answers A and B are not helpful in regards to getting to sleep quickly. When you read or watch TV, your mind is being stimulated and an overstimulated mind typically leads to trouble sleeping. Answer C, on the other hand, can be productive, as it will help to get your problems off your chest so you can rest better.

3. I Sleep In a Room That is...
A) Noisy and well lit
B) Extremely warm
C) Dark and well ventilated

If you answered anything other than C, your sleep environment is a problem and could be a large factor in your case of insomnia. The best environment for sleep is one that is completely dark, has a temperature of around 65 degrees, and is well ventilated. A warm, brightly lit room filled with noise and stagnant air isn't going to help you get to sleep, no matter what you may believe.

4. My Bed Is...
A) Soft, Squishy, and Comfortable
B) Firm and Comfortable
C) A wooden plank

B should have been your answer. Although having a soft bed is comfortable, it is not the best choice for sleep. The best choice is a firm bed that supports your weight completely. Admittedly, it doesn't have to be as firm as a wooden board, but it should be firm enough so that you don't sink into it.

5. When I Get Out of The Bed In the Morning, I...

A) Feel depressed that I didn't get nearly enough sleep.
B) Feel as though I didn't even sleep a wink.
C) Feel alive and full of energy.
D) Feel like going right back to sleep for several hours.

Anything other than C means you are lacking sleep and need to take the appropriate steps to fix the problem. To fix your insomnia problem, you can do anything from following a few simple insomnia tips to diving head first into natural insomnia remedies to visiting a doctor and getting prescription sleep aids. Basically, it depends on the severity of your insomnia and how drastically/quickly you wish to treat it.

Here are the results for the "Do I Have Insomnia" questionnaire...
(Results will vary and may not be 100% accurate for every reader)

5 out of 5: There is a pretty good chance you don't have insomnia.

4 out of 5: You sleep alright most days, but there is still a slight chance of insomnia.

3 out of 5: You're off and on. Some days you sleep great, others not so much. 60% chance of insomnia.

2 out of 5: You sleep, but not nearly as much as you'd like. The sleepless nights far surpass the well rested ones.

1 out of 5: If you're lucky, you get 1-2 nights of rest each week. Every night seems to be endless and it seems to take a miracle for you to sleep soundly through the night.

0 out of 5: Sleep is not something your familiar with. It's as though you haven't had a full nights rest in weeks or even months. You are a full blown insomniac that needs treatment ASAP!

To find out more about insomnia visit Insomnia Relief Almanac

Do you want a guaranteed solution for your insomnia - one that will cure your sleeplessness once and for all? If so, you should visit http://www.SleepTracks.org, the one and only website that can guarantee an insomnia cure for you.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sean_Saunders

Insomnia Video Clip - Sleeping Problems

2009-11-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

"Today we all lead incredibly hectic lives. If you are anything like me, getting enough sleep is a big problem. So in this program I am going to look at ten different ways in which science can help us get a decent night sleep. We helped Janles Dominic Diamond conquer his horrendous insomnia. Josef Svifted gardener grows to test a traditional sleep remedy. We help the man stop snoring. Standup comic Russel Kane battles his stress that keeps him awake at night. And chef Aldozily helps us uncover the culinary secrets to a good night sleep."

Menopause and Insomnia

2009-11-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

Losing sleep during the critical years of a woman’s middle age can be frustrating, not to mention inconvenient. Menopause insomnia, in fact, is inescapable, and a symptom of the slowing down of a woman's reproductive system. Menopause insomnia is caused by many factors, but it can be treated or made milder with the proper medication, diet, and sleeping habits.

If you are suffering from menopause insomnia, you need to understand the different kinds of insomnia that exist. Transient insomnia will last anywhere from a single night, to two to three weeks. Transient insomnia may be due to altered work hours, jet lag, or anxiety. Acute insomnia occurs when the sufferer cannot sleep over a period of three to twenty four weeks. Insomnia can be classified as chronic when sleeplessness is persistent.

There are also two levels of insomnia. Primary insomnia is characterized by sleeplessness that cannot be traced to anything in the body or the environment. Secondary insomnia, on the other hand, is characterized by difficulty sleeping because of health conditions. In either case, medication may be required, and will be formulated by a physician.

Insomnia is also caused by a variety of factors. The body is controlled by a circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep and waking hours. If the circadian rhythm is disrupted, such as when you take long-haul flights through multiple time zones, or if you take the night shift of a job, then you may find yourself sleepless for days. Physical pain, discomfort, and anxiety can also induce insomnia. Ingesting large servings of stimulants, lack of exercise, and dehydration can also bring insomnia on.

Hormonal changes can also cause sleeplessness, and can bring about menopause insomnia. In order to ease the discomfort of not being able to sleep at night, your doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy medication to supplement decreasing levels of estrogen in your body. Lower estrogen levels can translate into a drop in serotonin levels, the brain hormone that controls sleep. What menopause insomnia medication cannot directly counter, however, is the vicious cycle that menopause insomnia causes. With less sleep, you will most likely be more irritable and stressed out; this lack of relaxation and increased stress on your body can also lead to more insomnia.

Menopause insomnia can be eased by taking a few sleep-inviting measures during the day. Exercise for about half an hour in the afternoon, but not before bedtime. The afternoon exercise can relax your muscles, but the evening exercise can make you more awake and alert. Avoid stimulants, such as tea, coffee, chocolate, nicotine, or sugar, for up to three or four hours before bedtime, since stimulants can keep you awake. Avoid taking alcoholic beverages before you go to bed: alcohol may be a relaxant, but it can also keep you from sleeping soundly.

You may also want to change your night time diet. Drink chamomile tea or a glass of warm milk before bed. Chamomile tea can relax you, while milk has calcium to calm your nerves, and tryptophan, a mild sedative. Milk is more effective as a sedative if you take some carbohydrates, such as crackers or a small chicken sandwich, with it.

You may also suffer from night sweats during menopause, so keep your bedroom temperature cool. Cold feet, however, can keep you alert and awake, so cover your extremities. As soon as you get into bed, breathe deeply and slowly, then work one by one on your muscles. Tense, and then relax them, in order to release stress. Before you go to bed, do not engage in mentally challenging or stimulating activities. Watch TV, read a relaxing book, or read a warm bath in order to help your body relax.

Your doctor may also recommend medication to treat your menopause insomnia. If these medications do not work, do not self medicate by using antihistamines or antidepressants. Their side effects may stress you out more. Moreover, be wary of herbal remedies, as some medications may not have any approved therapeutic claims.

Whichever method you will use to treat your menopause insomnia, follow your doctor's orders and do not engage in any activities or take any medication without his express approval or prescription. Read as much as you can on menopause and insomnia. Menopause insomnia is a typical symptom of your age and state, so be extra cautious in keeping yourself healthy.

For more information now go to: http://www.nomoreinsomnia.net/menopause-insomnia.html, http://www.nomoreinsomnia.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathalie_Fiset

Pregnancy and Insomnia

2009-11-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

During the third trimester of your pregnancy, you have plenty to worry about, the bits you may need to buy ready for your new arrival, safe guarding your home and preparing yourself for the birth.
One thing that causes many women stress is pregnancy insomnia. This is a worry that we can do without on top of everything else a pregnant woman has to deal with!

Whilst insomnia is pretty common for pregnant women, it still does not ease the pressure and the tension that not getting enough sleep can cause.

So, what causes pregnancy insomnia in expectant women?
It is reported that around 75% of pregnant women suffer from this sleep disorder and there are several main causes. I am sure you are all aware that your hormones are everywhere, I know most pregnant women walk around apologizing for their mood swings, but this can also have an effect on your sleeping pattern.

In addition to this, the fear and anxiety of actually having the child may play a significant role in sleep deprivation as well as all of those aches and pains that taunt us throughout the final trimester.

Most pregnant women try to take as little medication as possible, meaning that natural sleep aid remedies for insomnia are extremely important to pregnant women.

The starting point for handling your insomnia whilst pregnant is to try to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible once you have gone to bed, by doing this your body will know that it is time to sleep. Get ready for bed by taking a relaxing bath with aromatherapy oils like one scented with lavender which will allow you to relax.
If you find that you can not sleep whilst in bed, try getting up. Laying there worrying that you are not sleeping will not help you drift off.

Busy yourself by reading, taking a walk or just potter about the house. This should take your mind off of the fact that you are struggling to sleep and will allow you to get a good night sleep when you do go back to bed.

As Helene Malmsio from the Sleep Aid Tips website suggests, "Try to work out what your 'window of opportunity" is in your sleep cycle, so that you can just slip in between the sheets just as your natural sleep cycle is coming around. They can be anything from 45 minutes to 2 hours apart, so timing is important for the optimum time to settle down for sleep."

When you go back to bed, if your mind is still full of worry and this is preventing you from getting to sleep, try listening to something soothing. Many people find that white noise aids them to a restful night sleep, I personally prefer an audio book, but find something that allows your mind to wander and helps you to sleep.

If none of these natural sleep aid remedies are helping your pregnancy insomnia to reduce, you may wish to visit your local health store, on their shelves there are many different types of herbal remedies for insomnia, but be careful.

Although most of them will be fine, always consult your doctor first as some, although stating they are 'safe for pregnant women' may not always be suitable for you.

Remember that any concerns that you may have about your pregnancy, including that of pregnancy insomnia, your doctor is there to help reassure and solve any niggles or issues you will have.

Although you may be tempted to resort to medication to aid your sleeping, ensure that any medication is not going to have an adverse effect on you or your child. Usually, these tried and tested natural sleep aid insomnia cure remedies ease the pressure and allow you to re-establish your sleeping pattern.

We have safe and Natural Sleep Aid Tips for pregnancy insomnia on our free sleep aid tips website.
Created by Helene Malmsio, on this site you can get free simple sleep aid recipes, therapies and how-to instructions for insomnia cures using massage, aromatherapy, oils, herbs, baths, comfort drinks, dream meanings, healthy sleep routines...and more at http://sleep-aid-tips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Helene_M_Malmsio

Insomnia Natural Cures - Frequently Asked Questions

2009-11-01T13:47:00.000-08:00

If you're thinking about insomnia natural cures instead of using medication treatments, then you need to know the basics. Here are a few frequently asked questions about the approach you take when trying these natural cures for insomnia.

I try very hard by telling myself every night to get to sleep. However, it never works for me. Why?

First of all if telling yourself to get to sleep is not working for you, then why are you still trying? The problem is that you are applying to much pressure to yourself. You are adding on to the pressure and obsessive thoughts you accumulated during the day. If you think about it, you are now adding "one more thing you have to do". Plus sleep is something that happens because you're brain tells us when it's time to fall asleep. Not the other way around. The first thing you should do is try to not force yourself to go to sleep. It may actually help you get to sleep quicker.

I can't sleep because I have what seems like millions of thoughts pounding my head. What do I do with all the thoughts in my head?

Let go of these thoughts or slow down your brain's thought activity. You can let go of these thoughts by shifting your mind to something that is not stimulating. For example, you can imagine yourself in a desirable setting doing absolutely nothing. Or you can count your breaths. Since the brain tells us when it's time to go to sleep, you'll need to do learn how to accept your thoughts in order let go of them.

What do I do at night if I wake up and can't get back to sleep?

Well, there are many things you can try. However, the main thing here is to make sure you do not apply pressure to yourself to get back to sleep. This is tough to do because if you look at the clock at all, you realize all you have is a few hours left until the alarm goes off. If you get to this point you basically convinced yourself into thinking you can't get to sleep. Making the same efforts to slow down your thoughts as you initially did to get to sleep will help you get back to sleep again.

After reading this article, you should see the continuing point we allude to is the mind. You'd be surprised how the human brain controls your sleeping. While we cannot control our brain, we can have it switch to a lower gear. Good luck in your efforts to get to get consistent sleep at night.

If you're tried of lying awake through the night? Please read the review of a great resource for insomnia natural cures, at http://www.aboutsleepdisorder.com/SleepTracksReview.asp

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Purfield

Insomnia Natural Cures - Quiz Yourself on the Basics

2009-11-01T13:40:00.000-08:00

If you're researching insomnia natural cures, then below are three key questions you need to know the answer to. If you want results, then you'll benefit from these questions. The format will be as follows: I'll state the question, follow up with the correct answer, followed by a lot of information to help you.

1. When I get started with a natural cure for insomnia I:
A) Take an over the counter medication along with the home remedy.
B) Follow the directions as instructed.
C) Research the remedy further to see if it's valid.

The correct answer is B. When you start trying a home remedy to cure your insomnia, you want to follow the instructions. Here's why, if you don't follow the instructions then you may not get the results you want. Also incorporating over the counter sleep medication with the remedy will not help you decide if it works or not. In regards to the other answers, if you decide to research the treatment you just purchased, then you simply researched at the wrong time. You should do all your research before purchasing. This way you know if the insomnia cure is workable with your current life style.

2. If I am stressed at night just before bed time, I:
A) Plan for the next day.
B) Just go to bed angry and agitated and try and get some well deserved sleep.
C) Write down my problems using a pen and paper.

There are two correct answers here: A and C. If you sit down with a pen and paper and write out your schedule for the next day, then you are "giving yourself permission" to handle your issues the next day. This can do wonders for your mind set and is worth a try. Also, writing is very therapeutic when it comes to confronting your problems. A simple exercise to try is writing down your thoughts (no matter how far out there they are) and then shred them. It's a great way to let go and move forward. If you go to bed angry and agitated then you probably won't get to sleep at a decent hour. Your best bet in this case is to try the exercises mentioned above.

3. When it comes to coffee or caffeinated drinks and my sleep I:
A) Will never give them up. I perform too well with them.
B) Try to cut back or eliminate the caffeine from my diet.

The correct answer is B. It may be something as simple like caffeine that is causing your insomnia. You start feeling the effects of caffeine as you get older. When you're a young adult, it gives you all the energy you need to conquer the world. Then one day you're thirty-something, hyped up in the morning and crashing in the afternoons. Then you're looking for more coffee to stay alert. You're best bet is to try and cut back on the afternoon coffee. If you want to be really effective, try cutting out caffeine all together. However, be prepared to fall asleep at inconvenient times. If coffee is such a vice where you would never give it up, then you need to consider going to decaf coffee. When it comes to home remedies for insomnia, you are aiming for a natural balance in your body so you can fall asleep at night again.

Are you looking for insomnia natural cures, then read our review of Sleep Tracks at http://www.aboutsleepdisorder.com/SleepTracksReview.asp and stop your insomnia once and for all.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Purfield

Insomnia Natural Remedy Ideas That Work

2009-11-01T13:29:00.000-08:00

Sleepless nights followed up by cranky, frustrated days can get old really fast. When the desire is to combat the problem without using harsh medications, insomnia natural remedy ideas can really help.

Finding the right insomnia natural remedy to suit might take a little trial and error, but the reality is when one of these pays off, it tends to do so without worry of side effects. Granted, some insomnia natural remedy items can produce allergic results, but that type of impact is few and far between.

Some of the top insomnia natural remedy methods include:

Valerian root, other herbs. This insomnia natural remedy might take a few weeks to work, but if it does, it will very well. Some people have mild side effects from this remedy. If stomach complaints, headache or dizziness presents, valerian might not be the insomnia natural remedy to pursue. Other options on the herbal market exist, as well. Things such as chamomile tea have proven helpful for some people.
Diet changes. This is one of the biggest insomnia natural remedy ideas that works and tends to do so very well. If coffee, soda, chocolate and other foods that contain caffeine are used in abundance, cutting them out of a diet can help immensely. Another play on this insomnia natural remedy is to ensure that eating does not take place before bed time. Limit food intake to a few hours before bed to reduce acid reflux problems and digestion issues that can keep people up and walking the floors.
Relaxation. Of all the insomnia natural remedy options going, this one might be the best. Learning to use relaxation techniques and mediation can help not only with getting more sleep, but also lessening stress in one's life. The powerful benefits of this insomnia natural remedy should not be discounted. It might take some time to learn these techniques, but the effort will be worth it in the long haul.
Aromatherapy. This is an easy insomnia natural remedy that is used by many. English lavender, for example, is used in all sorts of aromatherapy candles, fragrances and even soaps to help people relax. It is considered safe enough that many baby bath products use this to help little ones sleep sooner and sounder.
Music. Simple, soothing sounds often distract the mind and allow it to relax. This insomnia natural remedy is quick and easy to try.
Acupuncture. Many people find this insomnia natural remedy works very well for them. It might also help with other issues that are causing the insomnia in the first place.

Living with insomnia is not fun. Seeking out the right insomnia natural remedy options can help lessen the strain. The options are many and the truth is people don't always have to rely on medications to help them sleep faster, sounder and longer.

Milos Pesic is an expert in the field of Insomnia and runs a highly popular and comprehensive Insomnia web site. For more articles and resources on sleep problems, insomnia causes and treatments, insomnia symptoms and much more visit his site at: =>http://insomnia.need-to-know.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Milos_Pesic

Finding Insomnia Treatment Clinics

2009-11-01T13:10:00.000-08:00

Insomnia is a sleep disorder faced by millions, and they are constantly trying to find the best treatment for this. Though some of them are successful, others are not. This may depend largely on the clinic treatment that is chosen, and also on the type of insomnia that the person has. To get things right when a person has this disorder, one must always ensure that the disorder has first been diagnosed properly.

Next if there is a diagnosis for the disorder, you must find the right clinic. Clinics have to be chosen according to the type of insomnia that a person has. Though various clinics are dedicated to the cause, most of them will see patients only as outpatients. The trained professionals at the clinic must also be a part of consideration while finding a clinic for treatment.

You must take the credibility of the health professionals as well as the clinic before approaching them for treatment. The sessions are also very important, as it will reflect on the quality of the clinic. The patient must look carefully at the way the doctors look into the problem, at the first session. They must also check if a good amount of time is being taken to check the severity of the disorder.

If the clinics are very good, they will ask the patient to sort out the sessions. The sessions will also be spread out over time, so that the sleep patterns can be monitored. The sessions also need time and any individual with this disorder must be given ample time to reschedule the sleep patterns. The idea of going to a clinic is to get good counseling and proper care.

No one must just settle for a list of prescription drugs for the entire treatment session. They must insist on the monitoring of their improvement after each session. You can enquire with family members as well as colleagues if there are any reputed clinics they know for treatment of insomnia. They are bound to give a few suggestions.

You can also find a good insomnia clinic next to your home, so that attending the sessions is easy. By being regular you will only be helping yourself. The cost factor will matter, but do not spend more than necessary, as the clinics should give you value for your money. With a little time and effort you can find the right insomnia clinic.

Sarah Walker is a health and fitness enthusiast. She currently runs a website helping people with Insomnia To find out more information and help on insomnia, go to http://insomniasymptoms.org
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Walker

Insomnia Medications - Are You Addicted?

2009-11-01T12:10:00.000-08:00

The Truth About Sleeping Pills, Sleep Aids and Medications Side Effects

Insomnia is a common disorder wherein people resort to taking different kinds of insomnia medication to overcome this disorder. If insomnia medications are taken for a long period, there is a tendency that they can become addictive, physiological or psychological, and lead to insomnia relapses.

Research has proven that insomnia medication containing ingredients such as benzodiazepine medication can be addictive and lead to various side effects. Most people are able to overcome insomnia through proper diagnosis by a doctor who will enable the patient to take corrective measures as well as proper insomnia medication.
Insomnia medication if stopped immediately after prolonged use, can result in:

Depression
Anxiety
Withdrawal symptoms

Some of the common reasons for insomnia are:

physical side effects
development of drug tolerance
development of drug dependence
chemical reaction with other drugs and affecting the body
rebound insomnia
arthritis
chronic pain
thyroid disorders

However, depression, anxiety and insomnia go hand-in-hand and tend to become a vicious circle. Chronic insomnia leads to increased stress, which in turn leads to depression and anxiety.

arthritis
chronic pain
thyroid disorders

Common side effects of insomnia medications are:

dizziness
lethargy
forgetfulness
drowsiness
constipation
dry mouth and throat
blurred vision
urinary retention

How to overcome addiction

It is tempting to take a dose when you cannot fall asleep and crazy thoughts come into your mind. Before you know it, the giving into the temptation is less a control of exercising the will and more of giving in to biological craving that can only be medically treated.
To encounter the initial temptations:

Patients suffering from depression should perform relaxation exercises such as yoga and meditation.
Follow the prescribed instructions by the doctor and the literature on insomnia medication.
Inform the doctor of the other medications taken along with insomnia medications to avoid any side-effects or reactions.
The insomnia medications should not be taken for long period and should be taken only when there is dire necessity.
Patients should avoid alcohol consumption during medication.

http://survivingdepression.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adia_O'Hara

The Best Insomnia Medication For You

2009-11-01T12:04:00.000-08:00

Insomnia Treatment - Should You Take Sleep Medication?

Chronic insomnia is a prevalent and serious condition that is often treated with various forms of medication. Newer forms of insomnia medication are safe when used as prescribed and on a periodic basis, and are less addictive than their older cousins. When considering insomnia medication, it is important to remember there is no "one-size-fits-all" treatment, and it is best to discuss your sleep problems and concerns with a doctor before using any type of drug therapy.

The earliest known insomnia medication is bromide, which was used to promote sleep back in the mid 19th century. Bromide was originally used to treat epilepsy, but it was found to be an effective tranquilizer and sedative shortly thereafter. By the early 1900's, a new class of drug, barbituates, was developed. Barbituates were very effective in promoting sleep, and were widely used up until the 1960's, when benzodiazepines were introduced as a treatment for insomnia. Benzodiazepines were a much safer insomnia medication than barbituates, as they were much less likely to produce adverse effects, as well as much less likely to be fatal in the event of an overdose.

The newest class of insomnia medication, developed in the 1990's, are known as non- benzodiazepine, benzodiazepine receptor agonists. These medications are as effective as benzodiazepines, yet they have been shown to present a lower risk of addiction and abuse, as well as fewer side effects.

There are a number of different types of insomnia medication, most of which fall into either the class of benzodiazepines or the class of non-benzodiazepine, benzodiazepine receptor agonists.

The first type of insomnia medication is sedative-hypnotic. Sedative-hypnotics are used to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and increase the duration of sleep. These medications are generally taken orally at bedtime, although some of the newer forms of sedative-hypnotics can be taken on an "as needed" basis whenever symptoms occur. Sedative-hypnotics classified as benzodiazepines are no longer as commonly prescribed due to side effects such as inappropriate use, dependence, memory and movement impairments, and next-day sensations similar to a hangover. Those classified as non-benzodiazepine, benzodiazepine receptor agonists have much better safety profiles and are more likely to be prescribed. However, unusual side effects such as sleepwalking have been reported by a few who have used them.

Another type of insomnia medication is over-the-counter (OTC). OTC insomnia medications can be purchased at a pharmacy or drugstore without a prescription. The majority of these medications contain antihistamines that act as sedatives. The dosage of these antihistamines generally range from 25mg to 50mg. They do not work for everyone, however, and can produce side effects such as dry mouth and eyes, urinary retention, confusion, vivid dreams, and a next-day "hangover".

A third type of insomnia medication is sedating antidepressants. These are prescription medications more commonly used to treat depression, but have sedative effects that promote sleep. While there is solid evidence that sedating antidepressants are effective at treating insomnia in the context of treating depression, their effectiveness in treating primary insomnia is less clear. Furthermore, the side effects of sedating antidepressants are more severe than those of sedative-hypnotics, and are therefore less likely to be prescribed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to serve as medical advice. For medical advice, please consult your doctor.

To learn more, visit http://www.theantiaginginfosite.com, if you are looking for more info on insomnia medication
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Skipper_Stevens

Insomnia Treatments - Medications

2009-11-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

Common Insomnia Medication - A Medication List

When it comes to medications to treat insomnia, there are many options to choose from. They include drugs created specifically to treat insomnia, drugs designed for other uses which also help promote sleep, and over the counter medications. Medicines commonly used as sleep aids include:

- FDA approved prescription sleep medications (hypnotics)
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotic medications
- Over-the-counter (OTC) Medicines, such as antihistamines, are also commonly used as sleep aids.

Hypnotics
The drugs the FDA has approved to treat insomnia are listed below. They are called Hypnotics because they promote sleep, and they fall into two categories: benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines. All of these drugs work by activating certain chemicals in the brain which affect sleep.

Non-benzodiazepines:

- zalepon (Sonata)
- zolpidem (Ambien)
- eszopiclone (Lunesta)
- Ramelton (Rozerem)

Benzodiazepines:
- estazolam (ProSom)
- flurazepam (Dalmane)
- quazepam (Doral)
- temazepam (Restoril)
- triazolam (Halcion)

The effects of some of these drugs last longer than others. The benzodiazepines, except for triazolam, have a longer half-life, which means they stay in the body for a greater length of time. These drugs are good for maintaining sleep for a longer period of time, but they are also more likely to leave you feeling groggy in the morning. This effect is greater in the elderly population.

The non benzodiazepines and triazolam have shorter half-lives, which means they leave the body more quickly. This helps minimize the chance of feeling groggy the next day.

Antidepressants
Antidepressant medications that are commonly used to promote sleep include:
- trazodone (Desyrel)
- doxepin (Sinequan)
- trimipramine (Surmontil)
- mirtazapine (Remeron)
- nefazodone (Serzone)

Depression can be associated with difficulty sleeping, so in some cases, antidepressant medicines may be used to treat both conditions. In others, antidepressants are used to treat insomnia alone. This is a relatively common practice, and in some surveys, the antidepressant trazodone is identified as the most commonly prescribed medication for insomnia. Many of these medications have other effects besides sedation, as compared to the FDA approved Hypnotics whose primary purpose is to treat insomnia.

Antipsychotic Medications
- quetiapine (Seroquel)
- olanzapine (Zyprexa)

The antipsychotic medications, which are intended to treat psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and severe depression, have also been used to treat insomnia because of their effectiveness at getting people to sleep.

Even though these drugs can be prescribed for insomnia, most of them haven't been tested for this purpose and there are potentially serious side effects to using them.

Over the counter (OTC) medications
- diphenhydramine (such as Benadryl; Nytol; Sominex)

Most of these over the counter medications contain diphenhydramine which is an allergy medication. The problem with these medications is that they also have potential side effects, especially for older people. Side effects can include daytime sedation, urinary retention, dry mouth, constipation, and have been shown to affect ability to concentrate, safely drive, and operate machinery.

Visit Insomina123 for your own free sleep music, sleep diary, insomnia action plan and more tips to manage your insomnia. Develop your own secure, personal web space at our website http://www.insomnia123.com to help with your insomnia today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Zee

Insomnia Isn't All Bad

2009-11-01T11:22:00.000-08:00

That's right. Insomnia isn't all bad. It can be beneficial. Do you know why? Because if you aren't sleeping, you are what? Thinking! That's right.
Of course, before we can go on to what you think about, we need to deal with what you cannot think about. Problems. You can't think about problems while you are lying down or relaxing in any way. It's a rule. Do you know why it's a rule?
Because it's really easy to get into your unconscious mind when you are relaxed. (That's what hypnotism is all about.) And if you are thinking about problems in a negative way, guess what you are attracting into your life tomorrow? That's right. Problems. You don't want to do that.

Because if you are thinking about problems, that means you are worrying. One definition of worry is: Worry is a process where you picture something unpleasant and then you feel as though it is happening right now.

In other words, you body responds to what you are thinking about as though it was happening right now. If you are worrying about something that is frightening you, your body responds to that fright! You get all tight and tense and scared, and guess what? Your body is going through all those things and the situation hasn't even happened yet, so if it does happen, your body starts doing it all over again! That's what I call asking for trouble -- and receiving it. You can scare yourself into bad health because of your body's reaction to things..

Now, let's go to the other side of the coin. Good thoughts.

When you think "insomnia", think "good thoughts". Here's an example:
"Oh, I had too much coffee. I'll probably have insomnia tonight." So, what's your next thought? "Hey, that's not so bad. I can program my life with good thoughts while I'm waiting to fall asleep!"

Try it. "Insomnia". "Good thoughts". "Insomnia". "Good thoughts". "Insomnia". "Good thoughts".
Good. I think you've got the idea.

Again, why do you not want to think bad thoughts and worry before you go to sleep? Because when you are relaxed it's easier to program your unconscious mind. So, if you are going to get into the unconscious mind anyway -- and you are when you are relaxed -- you have to have a plan. You can't just let anything get into your thoughts, or your life can get very messy.

Here's what you can do. Keep a list by your bedside that states all your blessings. Make it a point to think only good things about the items on the list.

That's right. If you can do that, you can enjoy insomnia. Why do you want to enjoy it? Because if you dread it, it'll just keep coming around. If you enjoy it, you can fall to sleep blissfully.
So now you know why insomnia isn't all bad. Use that knowledge and watch your days get brighter!

If you like Jan Tincher's articles, you'll love her Success Tips! Cl'ck here to sub'scribe! mailto:successtips1@getresponse.com. You can read her articles at Self Help Advice Web Site.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jan_Tincher

Can Feng Shui Help You End Your Insomnia?

2009-11-01T11:06:00.000-08:00

Can Feng Shui help you end your insomnia so you can get a good night's sleep every night ? Here are some useful tips how to re-arrange furniture in your bedroom. The Japanese system of Feng Shui involves the correct positioning of furniture and other objects in your home. It is believed this will help you achieve better balance in you life.

Feng Shui is becoming increasingly popular. More and more people are convinced it helps them to relax. Many feel that it enables them to cure insomnia, solve sleep problems and sleep better at night.

There is no question that a good night's sleep is very good for you, both from a physical and mental point of view. If you are able to fall asleep as soon as you go to bed and enjoy, peaceful restful sleep right through the night, you wake up in the morning refreshed and invigorated. Your mind is also more alert.

If you have problems sleeping perhaps it may be worth your while trying the Feng Shui methods. Here are some Feng Shui tips you may find helpful. You may find they help you to cure your insomnia.

1. Try your best not to have you bed placed in such a way that you head faces the door. The Feng Shui reason for this because you shouldn't sleep with your feet in front of the entrance to your bedroom.

2. Another Feng Shui tip concerns advice about sleeping under a window.

According to Feng Shui it's not a good idea to sleep under a window because it makes you lose positive energy. If you bedroom is so designed that you have no alternative and have to sleep under a window, make sure that you hang a heavy curtain in front of the window.

3. Feng Shui suggest you have no pictures in your room that illustrate water. The reason for this is because it is believed pictures of water can actually cause insomnia. It can also bring bad luck.

4. Feng Shui also recommends that should make sure that there are no objects with sharp edges in your bedroom.

If there are objects with sharp edges try and cover these sharp edges with a cloth to offset the harmful effect. A good idea is to place a large pot plant in front of the sharp object.

If you suffer from insomnia, why not experiment and try these Feng Shui methods for a few nights? They are very simple and do not require a great deal of effort. You may find that they work very well. Of course, it is very important to have the right frame of mind when you start using Feng Shui methods. If you are skeptical and feel there is no way simple techniques like these could possibly help you, then Feng Shui is unlikely to work.

If, on the other hand, you approach the situation with an open mind - or even better - if you feel quite strongly that these Feng Shui methods are going to work, then it is highly likely that will have a very positive effect on your insomnia.

Try these simple methods for a while and see what happens.
If however, you find that these Feng Shui methods appear to have no effect whatsoever in helping you cure your insomnia and don't solve your sleep problems, then you'll have to use stronger, more effective methods. There are two methods you can use. Both have been found to be very effective indeed.

The first method is to use sleeping pills prescribed by your doctor. There is no doubt that sleeping pills are very effective indeed. They are also quick-acting. But the difficulty with sleeping pills is that they can become habit forming.

Once you start using sleeping pills you may find you are unable to do without them. You become completely dependent on them. Another huge problem with sleeping pills is that all sleeping pills have side-effects. Some side effects can be quite serious. The second way is to use a popular Sleep Management System called "Effective Sleep Solutions."

No medication of any kind is necessary. Reports from people who have made use of this way to cure insomnia are very encouraging.

Visit the following site to find out more about this unusual, but highly effective sleep management system: http://www.effectivesleepsolutions.com by Dennis Fisher. More information about this book can be found on his website http://www.effectivesleepsolutions.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dennis_Fisher

How to Have Sex That Combats Insomnia

2009-11-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

If you suffer from occasional bouts of insomnia consider learning how to have sex for sleeplessness. Experts agree that sex is a great remedy for sleeplessness and if you learn how to have sex to combat the malady, you will enjoy a restful and restorative sleep cycle and help prevent all manner of the negative effects of insomnia.

Sex to get to sleep that is prescribed by the experts. Sounds pretty good doesn't it? Some would say the men of the world have been doing it for thousands of years! But, it's just as beneficial for women as well and they should definitely figure out how to have sex to avoid insomnia.

How to have sex to help fight sleeplessness is easy, just do it. You don't have to learn any other method as to how to have sex for it to work. You just have to have the actual sex. The key to making this sexual method work is the release provided by sex. It's that sexual physical release that allows your brain to shut down enough to accept sleep quickly, and sustain it through the night. The brain reacts to stimuli by producing endorphins, in the case of sex your physical exertion and energy expulsion brings the body and mind up to a crescendo and then brings it back down again to a peaceful, satisfied state most conducive to falling asleep. It really makes a lot of sense when you think about it.

However, remember when learning sleep techniques, even how to have sex to fall asleep. Keep in mind that other stimulants do not provide the same release as sex and will keep the brain alert after the activity is performed, making it difficult to fall asleep and remain asleep. The activities that have this negative effect could include exercise or visual stimulants like an action movie or video. Video games are a good example as well. Any one of these activities before bed is not good for falling asleep.

So, if you are someone who has trouble falling asleep from time to time, or can't stay asleep, learn how to have sex for good sleep cycles. It's fun, convenient, natural, and doesn't cost anything. And, even if you don't have a sexual partner you can learn how to have sex with yourself and get the same restorative sleep results. That can be just as fun when done right and just as helpful as well.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherry_L_Harris

Sleep Yourself Thin - The Secrets of Sleep

2009-11-01T10:39:00.000-08:00

We've all experienced sleepless nights and know that the next day feels terrible, but not getting enough sleep may actually be worse for you than you realize. Recent studies have revealed that the number of hours we sleep may actually have an influence on our risk of obesity, and apparently, the less shut eye we get, the more we are at risk!

There's several reasons for this:
Firstly is the strong link between obesity and sleep apnea. It's a known fact that obesity is a major factor in sleep apnea, and is often listed as one of the main causes. As it seems however, this may be a two way street. Once a person becomes a victim of sleep apnea, without very strict dietary control, even more pounds pile on.

Sleep apnea causes sleep deprivation, and, of course, the more sleep deprived a person becomes, the less active he or she is. Less exercise causes weight gain, but is that the only reason we gain weight?

Secondly, there is also a link between sleep and hormones, in particular those hormones that control our eating behaviors, ghrelin, which causes us to get hungry, and plays a role in the regulation of weight, and leptin which causes us to feel full. When you don't get enough sleep it's not just tiredness that kicks in, ghrelin increases as well, while the level of leptin in the body decreases, so you feel hungry, and find it hard to fill yourself up.

The worse part is that when your tired or sleep deprived your also more likely to choose convenient and often unhealthy snack foods that are easy to prepare and filled with unnecessary calories.

So how much sleep is enough?
For most people, between seven and nine hours is a good guide, although some may need more, and occasionally some people need less. The best way to tell how much sleep is enough for you personally is to take a holiday or allow yourself a few days off to sleep for as long as you want, keeping track of what time you fall asleep and wake again. After a couple of days your body clock will stabilize, and you will find yourself sleep for around the same amount of hours each day. Then once you know you can set yourself a good routine, making sure that you go to bed at around the same time to make it easier for your body to adjust.

If you find it hard to sleep a good tip is to turn off the TV, computer or whatever your doing at least fifteen minutes before bed, and let yourself relax.

But:

How many more reasons do we need before we realize the importance of sleep in our lives? And yet loss of sleep could also lead to a loss of physical and mental health, to poor memory, poor coordination, and now, to weight gain and obesity.

Sleep tight for a healthier and slimmer population.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Graham_Park