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One of the most debilitating disorders to have is severe insomnia. This is because it affects virtually every aspect of your life, including your work, your relationships, and even your health. While almost everyone has experienced difficulties in falling asleep at some point in their lives, someone who suffers from severe insomnia battles it on a continuous basis. In most cases, there is not just one cause of this disorder, but a combination of many factors within one’s life. Without an effective treatment, it can lead to significant health risks, the loss of employment, or even substantial safety concerns. Here are three of the most common causes and some of the available treatment options.
#1 It May Be a Symptom of Another Health Condition
There are several health concerns, conditions, and diseases that can affect your ability to fall and stay asleep. Depression, anxiety, other mental illnesses, chronic pain or fatigue syndromes, COPD, congestive heart failure, angina, and a whole list of other conditions can cause severe insomnia. In fact, insomnia is not a disease or a disability – but a symptom of another condition. Until you can pinpoint the other cause of your insomnia, you may have a hard time finding the right treatment that will be effective for you. Speaking with your physician may be your best course of action, but there is a lot of good information available on the internet today, as well.
#2 Medications and Herbal Supplements
Many prescription medications and herbal supplements can cause severe insomnia. Some of the most common culprits include prescriptions for high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Over-the-counter cold remedies can also make it very difficult to fall asleep. St. John’s Wart, an herbal supplement used to help with depression, can cause sleep problems. While there are many others, the best course of action is to research your medications or speak with your doctor or pharmacist to see if there is an alternative available. It is not advisable to discontinue a medication without seeking a professional’s opinion first.
#3 Working the Night or Swing Shift
Since most night or swing shifts pay more, it can be a strong incentive to say, “Sign me up!” However, night shift workers are more likely to suffer from severe insomnia than the typical nine-to-fiver. There is also a host of other problems that can come from this type of work. The best advice for those that work these shifts is to keep a set pattern of sleep. Block as much sunlight from your bedroom as possible and turn off your phone. A sign on your front door that says “Day Sleeper” wouldn’t hurt, either!
A Final Thought
Severe insomnia cannot be ignored. Eventually, your health will begin to suffer, as will other important aspects of your life. Don’t simply lie in bed wondering what it will take to fall asleep. Make an appointment with your physician, get online and do some reading, or make a few significant changes to your lifestyle. Sweet dreams!
See also Severe Insomnia