Does bedtime seem meaningless these days to anyone else? With all that’s going on in the world, insomnia seems commonplace. According to Abid Bhat, a physician at the Sweet Sleep Studio, this acute insomnia is likely tied to current events.
Insomnia, whether acute or chronic, means more than just trouble getting to sleep. Other symptoms can include frequent waking, tossing and turning, or waking up before your alarm. These symptoms could be indicative of several different sleep issues, from sleep apnea to tooth grinding. Bhat says while many go straight to medications to solve sleep issues, often drugs mask the symptoms enough that patients won’t find the real source of their problems.
Instead, he recommends a few things first. According to his blog, there are a few simple things that everyone can do at home to identify their issues.
Keep a sleep journal
Taking notes about how often you wake, what time you go to sleep, and when you wake up can help a specialist know what you might be dealing with. Include information about your diet, exercise habits, and any other stressors, especially new ones, that might have an impact.
Practice meditation
One of the causes of acute or short-term insomnia is stress. Utilizing deep breathing techniques or guided meditation can help to relieve some of the stress so that you can rest. Acupuncture or yoga are other options for stress relief.
Call the professionals
If your insomnia becomes regular, also known as chronic, then it may be time to see a pro. With the info from your sleep journal, your doctor can discern whether a further sleep study is needed. With a full exam and potential observation, a sleep specialist can find the underlying issues, whether they are physical or psychological.
Good sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle. So don’t toss and turn; write it down and get back to sleep.