Insomnia

It is defined as the persistent difficulty or the inability to fall and/or stay asleep. This condition may have no apparent aetiology, but is often a symptom of an underlying medical or psychological condition. It is generally not considered a disease, but rather a symptom of other pathologies (e.g., anxiety, depression or pain). Ongoing sleep impairment interferes with normal daytime function. The amount of sleep required by adults is slightly longer than 8 hours. It is classified as chronic if it persists for 4 weeks or longer.

There are two common types:

Delayed sleep onset (i.e., difficulty getting to sleep)
Frequent awakenings (i.e., difficulty staying asleep)

Possible Causes

Psychiatric and neurologic disorders: stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder.
Medical problems that can cause: asthma, allergies, Parkinson’s disease, hyperthyroidism, acid reflux, kidney disease, cancer, chronic pain
Sleep disorders that can cause: sleep apnoea, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome.
Substance abuse: caffeine, alcohol, recreational drugs, long-term sedative use, stimulants; nicotine can cause restlessness while quitting smoking can cause transient insomnia.
Disruption of circadian rhythms: shift work; travel across time zones.
Menopause: It is present in 30% to 40% of menopausal women. It may be due to hot flushes and night sweats, anxiety, and/or change in progesterone levels.
Certain medications: decongestants and bronchodilators, and beta-blockers may lead to a variety of sleep disorders including mild, transient insomnia
Other: high-fat diet, lack of exercise, food sensitivities and blood sugar disorders have all been linked.

Signs And Symptoms

The consequences of lack of sleep, particularly when prolonged, include:

Decreased concentration and diminished memory
Daytime drowsiness and impaired functioning/task performance
Less enjoyment of activities and social interaction
Increased likelihood of alcohol and other substance abuse
Headaches
Irritability and mood disorders
Waking unrefreshed in the morning, despite feeling tired.
Anticipatory anxiety; It can become a vicious cycle with bed and bedtime coming to represent restlessness and anxiety

How Can Natural Medicine Help?

We can provide natural treatment for the relief. Get a good night sleep with the use of a wide range of herbal medicines and nutritional supplements. Linda will provide a specialised treatment plan that will not only help you to fall asleep but stay asleep, as well as treating the underlying problems