Insomnia

Insomnia is a sleep disorder. We all have trouble sleeping from time to time, but if you are not getting enough sleep or a satisfying sleep then you could have insomnia.

Insomnia is more likely to occur as we get older and sysmptoms include not being able to fall asleep, waking regularly during the night and not being able to get back to sleep, waking up early and not feeling refreshed after a night's sleep.   

Insomnia can also cause problems during the day, such as feeling tired and lethargic, wanting to sleep, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.

We all need different amounts of sleep so it is not the length of sleep that determines insomnia, but the quality of sleep.

There are two types of insomnia.

Primary insomnia means that the sleep problem is not directly linked to any other health problem.

Secondary insomnia means that the sleep problem is caused by another condition such as depression, arthritis, stress, pain, worry, a serious illness or medication.

Acute insomnia is a short term problem whereas a longer term problem is known as chronic insomnia and is usually diagnosed when a person cannot sleep at leaset three times a week for a month or longer.

Treatment for Insomnia

Doctors may prescribe some sleeping tablets for a short term problem, but for chronic insomnia the underlying condition that is causing the problem needs to be treated.

Some relaxation techniques and alternative therapies such as Tai Chi, meditation and massasge may also be beneficial in getting a good night's sleep.

Tips for a good night's sleep

- Avoid caffeine, nicotine or alcohol late at night

- Don't eat a heavy meal late in the evening

- Don't exercise just before bedtime, but exercise during the day is beneficial

- Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet and at the right temparature, not hot or cold.

- Go to sleep at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning,   with no naps during the day.

- Follow a relaxing routine and wind down before sleep, such as reading a book, listening  to music.

- Take a warm, relaxing bath before bedtime, add a few drops of lavender essential oil
- Drink a cup of camomile tea with a little honey in it before bedtime.

For more help with insomnia visit  The London Sleep Centre                                

For aromatherapy oils and other natural remedies visit