Friday, September 25, 2009

Insomnia - Natural Treatments

By Troy Phillips

There are many natural treatments for insomnia. Individuals that suffer from insomnia experience complications when it comes to falling asleep and/or issues staying asleep. It has been determined that there are two unique types of insomnia. These types include "Primary" and "Secondary". While there are many over-the-counter and prescription based medications, more and more individuals are seeking natural treatments for insomnia. In this guide, you will learn about those treatments as well as some facts regarding this sleep disorder that millions suffer from regularly.

It only stands to reason that before a suitable treatment can be determined, it first needs to be established whether you're suffering from primary insomnia or secondary insomnia. Primary insomnia is essentially the type of insomnia experienced by those who are otherwise perfectly healthy apart from the sleeping disorder itself. Secondary insomnia on the other hand is usually caused by some other underlying complication or condition. This can be due to certain medications or even alcohol or alcohol based products.

As far as determining a suitable natural treatment is concerned, one also needs to take into consideration the length of time a person suffers from the disorder. For example, if insomnia is preventing you from getting a proper night's rest once or twice each week, then it would be safe to assume that you are suffering from acute insomnia. If on the other hand this condition is preventing you from getting adequate sleep three or more times each week, then by all accounts you are suffering from chronic insomnia.

Essentially, there are numerous factors which can contribute to the onset of insomnia. For example, those who suffer from acute insomnia may often experience difficulty sleeping due to stress, medication, or any other form of discomfort. Those who suffer from chronic insomnia on the other hand, often suffer from this disorder due to excessively high levels of stress or one or more medical conditions. Even depression can play a significant role in whether or not a person is able to get to an adequate amount of rest. Of course, if insomnia is caused by depression, anxiety, or stress, then it only stands to reason that reducing stress levels is perhaps one of the best natural treatments.

There are many symptoms that are often present in the insomnia sufferer. One of the most common experiences for sufferers of this sleep disorder is feeling sleepy throughout the day. This comes as a direct result of interruption in the ability to rest appropriately at night. In addition to this, many may discover that they are unable to focus on important tasks, concentrate as needed, and even remember important information. Mood complications such as high levels of marked irritability, depression, and being emotionally responsive in an open manner may all result in the person that is unable to fall asleep easily and stay asleep.

Interestingly enough, it is widely accepted that the human body simply cannot continue to function for more than three weeks if deprived of sleep. Additionally, sleep not only ensures that you have sufficient energy to go about your daily life, but it also helps to boost your immune system. Furthermore, it is during the times when you are a sleep that your body repairs its muscles and tissues. The bottom line is; sleep is vital for both mind and body and as such, if you suffer from insomnia it would be in your own best interest to invest a little bit of time in order to research the different natural treatments.

One of the most popular natural treatments for insomnia is a substance called "Melatonin". While the body naturally produces this substance when evening and night arrive each day, it has been found that many do not produce enough melatonin to promote healthy sleep. For this reason, there is natural melatonin products offered on the market today that assist in promoting rest. In addition to this, valerian is another product that is said to enhance sleep and allow individuals to stay asleep at night. Both of these products will assist in ensuring that the body is properly restored, more energy is experienced throughout the day, and the mood is even throughout the day.

Even though the market is practically flooded with an abundance of natural treatments, melatonin and valerian are by far the option of choice amongst the medical profession. Of course, over and above taking medication, one should also take the necessary steps with regards to making certain lifestyle changes. This could include a change of diet and perhaps a few changes to your bedroom in order to ensure that it's as comfortable as possible. If you find you cannot relax enough in order to fall asleep, or you find yourself waking up regularly during the night, you may very well find that the natural treatments mentioned in this article are quite invaluable.

About the Author:

No comments: