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Sleep Aid Tips

Chronic or intermittent insomnia can affect every other area of your life and should be addressed as soon as possible. If not, your health, work, and even relationships can be negatively affected. Fortunately, there are a number of helpful sleep aids to let you get a good night's rest. If over-the-counter methods aren't successful, consider talking to your physician or a sleep disorder specialist to address this issue.

  1. Prescription

    • Prescription medications for sleeplessness, such as zolpidem and eszopiclon, should be used with caution. Talk to your doctor to see if these medications are right for you or if they'd be contraindicated considering other conditions you have. Use only the smallest possible dosage at first. Wait to see how it affects you -- if you are able to sleep right away, get good rest during the night and wake refreshed the next morning. Consider increasing the dosage slowly if insomnia is still a problem.

    OTC

    • OTC, or over-the-counter, medications can be found in drugstores or sometimes in supermarkets. They should be used the same way as prescription drugs -- slowly at first. Do not use them for too long or you may develop a dependency. Some people find these medications irritating to the stomach, and it helps if they have something to eat or a warm glass of milk before taking them and going to bed.

    Natural

    • Natural remedies can be helpful to insomniacs too. Many herbal pills and liquids are available in specialty health stores to treat sleeplessness, such as those containing ingredients like valerian and chamomile. Some individuals find melatonin (a sleep-inducing chemical made by the body) supplements help support restful sleep. Make sure that any herbal remedies you take are made of quality ingredients and not contraindicated with other medications you need or conditions you have. Keep in mind that they are not regulated by government agencies the same way that medications are.

    Other Tips

    • Many things can serve as sleep aids that are not ingested. Some people find that soothing music or a sound machine helps them block out unwanted noise or thoughts for better sleep. Room-darkening curtains can serve as a sleep aid by blocking out unwanted light -- this is especially important for shift workers, who may sleep during the day. Taking a warm bath, writing in a journal or reading a book may also promote restful sleep. Getting enough exercise during the day makes it easier to sleep at night.

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