Understanding Menopausal Insomnia

What is insomnia?

Insomnia, one of over 70 identified sleep disorders, is the inability to get quality sleep at night. Trouble falling or staying asleep and waking up groggy in the morning are all signs of insomnia.

When a person suffers from insomnia, they become more at risk for other problems, like depression and anxiety. Irritability can become prevalent in a woman who has not had sufficient sleep, a time when the body and mind rejuvenate.

There are two types of insomnia:

Primary insomnia

Problematic sleeping not connected to any medical issue.

Secondary insomnia

Having trouble sleeping because of some health reason, medication, or substance consumed (alcohol or drugs).

Menopausal insomnia falls into the latter category.

What are the effects?

Lack of sleep can be harmful to your body in many ways. Not only are physical effects, like weight loss or gain, often noticeable, but so are mental effects such as:

* Depression
* Inability to concentrate
* Memory lapses
* Tense work or personal relationships

Insomnia can often be cyclically vicious. You’re running on no sleep and finally crash in the middle of the day and nap for a few hours. And you’re back to being wide awake later that night.

Why can’t I sleep?

There are many triggers of insomnia, most commonly during menopause, the flux of estrogen levels affect progesterone and magnesium production, both sleep inducers, making it difficult to sleep. Not only is the sleep cycle directly chemically affected, but other menopausal symptoms can culminate in one big sleep stopper.

* Night sweats
* Stress
* Anxiety
* Muscle tension

What can I do to get optimum rest?

If your insomnia began at the onset of menopause and is the result of a chemical imbalance, there are several lifestyle changes you can implement to help regulate your hormone levels.

Eat a balanced diet.

Hydration and Healthy food will promote overall wellness and balanced hormones.

Avoid alcohol

A substance that can make you feel drowsy, but more likely to wake up in the night.

An exercise routine

Will help your body feel tired at the end of the day and help cease the thoughts running through your brain.

No more caffeine

Try to trick your body with decaf

Ask your doctor if a melatonin supplement is right for you.

Follow those indications.

When should I see a doctor?

If your insomnia is resistant to the above lifestyle changes, it lasts more than a few weeks, and your personal life is becoming affected, it may be time to talk to a professional about treatment. Alternative medicine and prescription sleep aids are common treatments. For more information about insomnia treatments, follow this link.