How to Get a Better Night's Rest

About 100 million American's experience sleep problems nearly every night. Physical problems like ulcers, back pain, asthma, and allergies can be the problem. There are also certain medications as well as night time conditions like sleep apnea, depression and anxiety also can hinder a good night's rest. There is also stress. Sleep specialist can help determine whether you have a sleep disorder or not. Here are three common disorders:

Sleep apnea is a condition that happens when the tissue at the back of the throat collapses and blocks the airway while you sleep. This will cause you to stop breathing many times during the night. It is most common in middle-aged men, but it can occur in women. You'll know you have it if you snore loudly, wake up gasping, for air or feel fatigued and sleepy during the day. This disorder can be confirmed with the use of polysomnogram which is an overnight test. A more successful treatment is a continuous position airway pressure (CPAP). You would wear a mask over your nose or face for delivery of air to the back of your throat which keeps the airway open. Weight loss can also help. Staying off you r back, raising your head during sleep, warning an oral device, or even surgery to remove some excess tissue can help.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is uneasy feeling sin your legs making you move them often especially at night. It is more common in women than in men. This condition is associated with kidney disease, iron deficiency, pregnancy, certain medications, and most antidepressants. Your symptoms would be burning, a tingling or prickly sensation, as well as an urge to move your legs for relief. Regular exercise might help. Medication may also be needed.

Narcolepsy is excessive sleepiness that might involve some bouts of sleep attacks during the day. You feel sleepy even after sleeping all nigh. You also feel drowsy after a long nap. You may also be unable to move before or after sleeping. Take an overnight sleep test and a daytime nap test to diagnose your condition. A schedule for napping and stimulant medications are helpful.

Develop sleep strategies. Try developing a routine such as taking a warm bath. Use dark curtains in your bedroom. Consider using ear plugs or a mask. No caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine before bedtime. It's ok to exercise but don't do it close to bedtime. Use your bedroom for sleeping only. Go to bed and get up at the same time everyday even weekends and holidays. Try a prescription medication on occasion. You don't want to become dependent.

source: www.remedy.com