Sleep has always been one of the greatest gifts to humanity. Sleep is the state of rest when an individual is subconscious of the activities in his environment.
Beyond the amazing advantage of rest from stress and busy schedules of everyday life, there are many benefits associated with sleeping such as;
- Proper functioning of the brain
- Prevent unnecessary weight gain
- Enhanced memory
- Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke
- Improved immune function of the body
These are just few benefits of getting good sleep.
Insomnia on the other hand is the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep. Insomnia is caused by different factors such as depression, medications, illnesses, poor sleeping habits or even anxiety.
An insomniac is someone who has difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Research from the Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) has shown that adults need at least 7-9 hours of sleep everyday depending on their age. In Nigeria, more than 1.5 million cases of insomnia are recorded yearly.
There are two types of insomnia
- Long term insomnia: this occurs for a longer period of time. It can be caused by stressful activities and events but it may be connected to medical reasons, poor hygiene, sleeping disordered and habits
- Short term insomnia: this happens for a short period of time where the individual finds it difficult to sleep. This is usually caused by stress due to an unpleasant event. It can occur in children and adults also.
Insomnia has been associated in the development of certain serious diseases such as depression, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. It can also affect an individual’s day-to-day activities such as reduced performance and limitation of ability to carry out daily functions.
What causes insomnia?
Insomnia can be caused by medical, physical or psychological factors. Most times, the cause is a minor problem like stress or even sadness from an unexpected event. When any of these occurs, the body must be allowed to rest adequately and the mind must be exposed to the right things and atmosphere to find ease and healing.
Other causes are;
- The nature of the environment (too noisy or uncomfortable room temperature)
- Nightmares
- Hard drugs
- Stress and strain after physical workouts
- Travels and work schedules
- Mental health disorder
- Medications
- Caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.
How do I know I have insomnia?
This is a question a lot of people have asked. Some are unsure if they are experiencing days of lack of sleep or if they are really suffering from insomnia.
These are basic symptoms that will help you know if you are experiencing insomnia.
- Continuous worry about sleep
- Lack of focus and increased error at work
- Waking up too early and stressed
- Difficulty in falling asleep at night
- Depression and anxiety
- Feeling fatigued after a night’s sleep
Can a child or adolescent experience insomnia?
Yes!
Children are known to fall asleep easily than adults. When children have difficulties in sleeping, it should be a thing of great concern.
In adolescents, insomnia is more related to poor sleep habits and delayed sleep. At this stage of life, their minds are wild and active and they like to explore. This keeps them awake even when they should be resting. Being online and active on various social media platforms when the mind and eyes are supposed to rest can cause insomnia in adolescents.
The main cause of insomnia in children and adolescent is associated with poor sleeping habits and behavior. In whatever case, it should be checked by a pediatrician and other necessary medical personnel.
Insomnia in pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman’s body can change so much that she even experiences certain things in her body for the first time.
Research has shown that most women experience insomnia during pregnancy. Pregnant women get to sleep more during their first trimester.
There are many reasons why pregnant women experience insomnia. Some includes:
- Swellings and pain in the leg
- Nausea
- The need to use the toilet frequently
- Back pain
- Abdominal discomfort
- Dreams and thoughts
- Stress from restlessness during the day
- anxiety
Insomnia and aging
As you get older, your bodies undergo changes that affect your everyday activities. You may not be as strong as you use to be in your youthful age. You may not be so active physically and socially as you use to be. Diets may change, and understanding and wisdom gained over the years will be more evident. When you’re less active during the day, there are high tendencies that you may want to rest. This alone can affect your sleep at night.
There are certain medical conditions associated with aging such as arthritis, back and joint pain and also general weakness of the body. These conditions may cause older people to take a lot of medications. This increases the chance of insomnia.
What is the cure or prevention of insomnia?
Proper sleeping habits can help prevent insomnia. These includes:
- Ensure your bedroom is conducive and comfortable enough. If necessary, get soft pillows, lay your bed neatly and your mattress should be comfortable enough for you.
- Engage in productive and inspiring activities during the day. This helps to promote good night sleep.
- Avoid heavy meals that would deprive you of comfort. Take your dinner early enough to keep you light before going to bed.
- Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and nicotine.
- Keep to your bedtime. This enables your body and your system in general to get used to your bedtime.
- If you are on a medication, check to see if insomnia is part of the side effect.
- Play soothing and relaxing music to help your body and mind flow with the rhythm. You can also take time to meditate while the music plays.
- Always have adequate rest when you are fatigued. Allow your body regain its strength and wellness.
Take your time and take great care of your health. No one would care about your health and wellbeing than you.
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Insomnia care at Virtual Hospital.
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