- Sometimes perimenopausal (the time leading up to menopause) women have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep; hot flashes and night sweats often can disturb sleep. Moreover pregnancy can affect how well a woman sleeps.
* How is insomnia diagnosed?
If you feel you have insomnia, talk to your doctor. It may be helpful to complete a sleep diary for a week or two, noting your sleep patterns, your daily routine, and how you feel during the day. Talk about the results of your sleep diary with your doctor. He may do a physical exam and take a medical history and sleep history. Be sure your doctor may also want to talk to your bed partner to ask how much and how well you are sleeping. Sometimes, you may be referred to a sleep center for special tests.
* How is insomnia treated?
- If insomnia is caused by a short-term change in the sleep/wake schedule, as with jet lag, your sleep schedule may return to normal on its own.
- If your insomnia makes it hard for you to function during the day, talk to your doctor.
Chronic insomnia Treatment includes:
• Finding and treating any medical conditions or mental health problems.
• Looking for routines or behaviors, like drinking alcohol at night, that may lead to the insomnia or make it worse, and stopping (or reducing) them.
• Possibly using sleeping pills, although controversy surrounds the long-term use of sleeping pills. You should discuss with your doctor the risks and side-effects.
• Trying one or more methods to improve sleep, such as relaxation therapy, sleep restriction therapy, and reconditioning.
1. Relaxation Therapy. This type of therapy aims to reduce stress and body tension. Consequently, your mind is able to stop "racing," the muscles can relax, and restful sleep can occur.
2. Sleep Restriction. Some women suffering from insomnia spend too much time in bed trying to fall asleep. They may be assisted by a sleep limit program under the guidance of their doctor.
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