Tips to Help You Overcome Insomnia

Insomnia is a widespread problem. And there are various ways that this condition manifests itself. You might have difficulty getting to sleep at night. Perhaps you wake up in the middle of the night and can't fall off again. Or some people wake up far too early in the morning, and that's the end of their sleep. This condition can create a sense of constant anxiety. You are constantly concerned about your lack of sleep and the effects it's having on your day to day performance.

Everyone has an occasional sleepless night. This can be a result of stress, too much caffeine or other stimulants, or not getting enough exercise. But if haven't been sleeping well for several weeks or more, there may be an underlying medical condition that's to blame. Here are some of the health concerns that can cause insomnia:

* Allergies
* Pain resulting from an illness, injury or surgery
* Anxiety and depression
* Over-activity of the thyroid gland
* Sexual dysfunction
* Side effects from any medications you may be taking
* Urinary, gastrointestinal or neurological disorders

If you think your sleepless nights might be a result of any of these conditions, be sure to get checked out by your doctor as soon as possible.

If you don't have chronic insomnia, but do have frequent episodes of being unable to sleep, there are many things you can do to make sure you get the rest you need. Here's a look at the most effective lifestyle changes you can make to manage insomnia.

* Don't ingest any caffeine after noon
* Avoid long naps during the day
* Don't have more than two alcoholic beverages per day, and have them early in the evening, not before bed
* Create a bedtime routine: Read a book or do a peaceful activity until you feel drowsy. Take a warm bath right before bed. Avoid TV; it's too stimulating
* Make your bedroom as comfortable as possible
* Count sheep

Don't use sleeping pills unless your doctor prescribes them. These can become habit forming and you'll have an even worse problem. If these tried and true remedies don't work, it could be a sign that you have a more serious medical problem. You'll need to visit your doctor for a thorough examination.