Insomnia and Sleep difficulties

Treatments available for insomnia

A goods night sleep is from the most important tools needed to protect your physical and mental well being. Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or causes you to wake up too early. Implementing good sleep hygiene practices as well as sleep aids can help you safeguard and enjoy your sleep.

About Insomnia

What is it?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep.

What causes it?

It can be caused by stress, poor sleep habits, medical conditions, or certain medications.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, and feeling tired during the day.

Who is likely to suffer from it?

Individuals with high stress levels, poor sleep hygiene, or underlying medical conditions are more prone to insomnia.

What are the potential complications, if left untreated?

Complications can include daytime fatigue, mood disorders, and impaired performance at work or school.

How is it treated?

Treatments include improving sleep hygiene, cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), and in some cases, medications.

When should I book an appointment with my GP

Insomnia FAQs

How long should I use sleeping tablets for?

Sleeping tablets should only be used as a temporary measure to help one get to and stay asleep. They should also not be used before implementing good hygiene practice first. If you find that you need to take sleeping tablets for more than a few days, then you should arrange to see your GP.

Can melatonin be used to help sleep?

Melatonin is licensed for the treatment of jet lag because it helps restore the body's natural sleep cycle. It should not be used to help treat sleeping difficulties that are not due to jet lag, except under the direction of a medical professional. 

Are sleeping tablets addictive?

Sleeping tablets are not addictive. However, if one takes them regularly for a prolonged period of time, then they can develop a tolarance for them. This means that they may find that they same dose is not having the same affect that it used to. Likewise one may develop a dependance to them. This means that they may find that they are unable to sleep easily without taking them. 

What are the common side effects of sleeping tablets?

Sleeping tablets in general can cause one to wake up the next day feeling tired, and drowsy. This is commonly referred to as a "hangover effect". The different sleeping tablets also may have adverse effects that are specific to them. You should carefully read the product information leaflet before taking them. 

What do I do if I have concerns about drug dependency to sleeping tablets or any other treatments

If you are worried that you are developing or have developed a dependancy, tolarance or addiction to any treatment, you should arrange to see your GP as soon as possible as they can help you with this.

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