Insomnia
Alternate Names : Sleeplessness, Primary Insomnia, Wakefulness, Inability to Sleep
What are the treatments for the condition?
The best way to prevent insomnia is to develop good sleep habits. This includes maintaining a regular and predictable sleep schedule. Substances known to cause insomnia, such as nicotine, caffeine and alcohol, should be avoided. Creation of a quiet, comfortable sleep environment is also useful. Regular exercise is important, but should not be done within 2 hours of going to bed. Quiet, relaxing activities before bedtime, such as reading, listening to music, or watching TV, can help. Using medications such as zolpidem, zaleplon, or temazepam to induce sleep should be considered a last resort. Long-term use of these medications can actually cause more sleep problems.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Side effects of the many medications used to induce sleep include:
day time sleepiness
physical tolerance to and dependence on some of the medications
memory impairment
rebound insomnia when medication is stopped
psychological dependence on the medication
poor quality sleep produced by some medications
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Good sleep habits should be followed for life. Early identification and resolution of contributing factors may help reduce the number of sleepless nights.
How is the condition monitored?
Insomnia may be self-monitored. Healthcare providers can be notified of persistent sleeping problems.
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