Why am I having problems sleeping?
It is estimated that 8 million people suffer with sleep problems in the UK. On average the ideal number of hour’s sleep an individual requires is between 7 and 9 hours, however some people can function with less than that. Sleep is essential for our bodies to recharge and recover from the daily demands.
This PharmacyKwik blog will cover a few ways to deal with sleep problems that affect every single one of us in our lives at one time or another.
PharmacyKwik tips for avoiding insomnia
- Establish a regular Bed Time and Waking Time
- Relax before you go to bed
- Don’t eat before you go to bed
- Try not to nap during the day
- If you can’t sleep you should get up and go back to bed when you are fully tired
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Reduce nicotine intake before you got to bed
- Exercise for 45 minutes to an hour 3 times a week to help elevate your mood and promote sleep
- Having a bath 1-2 hours before bed helps sleep
Herbal Sleeping Aids
Kalms and Herbal Nytol both contain Valerian and Hops, both of which help promote drowsiness and help you to fall asleep.
Lavender oil drops placed on the pillow and chamomile tea are other alternative remedies to help sleep problems.
Medicated Insomnia Relief
Nytol contains an old type of antihistamine known as Diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine reduces the time taken to fall asleep and also reduces the chances of waking up during the night.
Tablets containing Diphenhydramine should be taken 20-30 minutes before bedtime and should not be taken for longer than 7 consecutive nights.
Phenergan and Sominex contain the ingredient Promethazine, again this is an old type of antihistamine that can be used to help promote sleep.
If all the suggested treatments have been tried and sleep is still an issue then you should contact your GP.