Sleep Awaits, Choose Ayurveda, Choose Life

Introduction

In India, sleep disorders have become increasingly common due to modern lifestyles and stress. Statistics indicate that a significant portion of the population suffers from insomnia, impacting their overall well-being and productivity. Insomnia is more than just a lack of sleep; it can lead to severe health complications if not treated promptly. This comprehensive guide aims to provide insights into insomnia, its types, causes, and treatment options in both allopathic and Ayurvedic medicine.

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep. It can be short-term (acute) or long-lasting (chronic), leading to impaired daytime functioning. Chronic insomnia, in particular, can raise the risk of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Symptoms of Insomnia

– Difficulty falling asleep

– Waking up frequently during the night

– Waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep

– Daytime fatigue or sleepiness

– Irritability, depression, or anxiety

– Difficulty concentrating or remembering

Types of Insomnia

1.Acute Insomnia:

Acute or short-term insomnia, also referred to as adjustment insomnia, is often triggered by stress or environmental changes such as noise or light, or sleeping in an unfamiliar bed or surroundings. It typically lasts for a few days to weeks.

2.Chronic Insomnia:

Long-term or chronic insomnia occurs three or more nights a week for over three months. It includes primary chronic insomnia (idiopathic) and secondary chronic insomnia (associated with other conditions). Common causes of chronic insomnia include medical conditions, mental health issues, and lifestyle factors.

3.Onset Insomnia:

Onset insomnia involves trouble initiating sleep, which can be short-term or chronic, often caused by stress, anxiety, or caffeine use.

4.Maintenance Insomnia:

This involves difficulty staying asleep or waking up too early, often linked to mental health conditions or physical ailments.

5.Behavioural Insomnia of Childhood (BIC):

Behavioural insomnia of childhood (BIC) is a sleep issue in kids and has three types:

-BIC Sleep-Onset: Trouble falling asleep due to associations with sleep aids like being rocked or having a parent nearby.

-BIC Limit-Setting: Refusal to go to bed and attempts to delay sleep by asking for things like a drink or a story.

-BIC Combined Type: A mix of the first two types, where kids resist going to bed due to negative feelings about sleep and lack of bedtime rules set by parents.

Common Causes of Insomnia

-Medical Conditions: Chronic pain, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal problems

-Psychological Issues: Stress, anxiety, depression

-Lifestyle Factors: Irregular sleep schedules, poor sleep hygiene, excessive caffeine or alcohol intake

-Environmental Factors: Noise, light, uncomfortable sleeping conditions

Allopathic Approach for Insomnia

The allopathic approach to insomnia involves a combination of non-medical therapies and, in some cases, medications. Depending on the severity of the insomnia, various treatments are available.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

This therapy helps identify and change thoughts and behaviors that cause sleep problems. It’s often the first treatment recommended for insomnia.

Sedative-Hypnotic Drugs:

These chemicals reduce anxiety and induce sleep by slowing down the brain’s activity. However, they can cause side effects like sleep paralysis, suicidal thinking, and more.

Sleep Hygiene:

This involves habits like maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a comfortable sleep environment.

Medication:

Some prescription sleep medicines can help with short-term insomnia, but they’re not usually recommended for long-term use. While medications can be effective in treating sleep disorders, they may cause side effects such as sleep paralysis, suicidal thinking, behavioral changes, anemia, hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, respiratory infections, and hair loss.

Ayurvedic Approach for Insomnia

In Ayurveda, insomnia is termed “Anidra” or “Nidranasha” and is caused by specific imbalances in the three doshas:

Tarpaka Kapha:

An auxiliary dosha of Kapha, its role is to nourish the brain cells, resulting in a restful night’s sleep. When this dosha is not in balance, the brain cells go unnourished, causing insomnia.

Prana Vayu:

A supplemental Vata dosha that creates a sensitive nervous system. An aggravated Prana Vayu can cause insomnia, often linked to depression, anxiety, and worry.

Sadhaka Pitta:

A crucial Pitta dosha found in the heart that controls emotions, spirituality, decisiveness, and desires. Any imbalance creates problems with resting functions in the body, leading to insomnia.

Sleep disorders are common due to stress and poor diet. Ayurveda believes sleep helps remove toxins from the body, which cause health issues. Lifestyle changes and herbal remedies can help treat sleep disorders.

1.Ashwagandha:

This herb, also known as Indian ginseng, has anti-stress and anti-anxiety properties. It helps you fall asleep faster, improves sleep quality, and reduces awake time.

2.Brahmi:

This calming herb balances all three doshas in Ayurveda and is useful for insomnia and other sleep disorders. It reduces stress and anxiety, induces sleep, and improves brain function.

3.Shankhapushpi:

A natural sedative that calms the brain and relieves stress and anxiety. It reduces stress hormone levels, improves sleep quality, and enhances memory.

These herbs, along with lifestyle modifications, can help manage sleep disorders and improve overall well-being.

FAQ's

What lifestyle changes can help manage insomnia?

Practising good sleep hygiene, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and reducing stress through relaxation techniques can help manage insomnia.

How does Ayurveda view insomnia?

Ayurveda views insomnia as a result of imbalances in the doshas, particularly Tarpaka Kapha, Prana Vayu, and Sadhaka Pitta.

Can Ayurvedic treatments be used alongside allopathic medicine?

Yes, Ayurvedic treatments can complement allopathic medicine, but it’s important to consult with healthcare providers before combining treatments.

How effective are herbal remedies for insomnia?

Herbal remedies like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Shankhapushpi have shown effectiveness in reducing stress and improving sleep quality.

Are there any side effects of Ayurvedic treatments?

Ayurvedic treatments are generally safe when used as directed. However, it’s essential to use high-quality herbs and consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner

By understanding the various aspects of insomnia and exploring both allopathic and Ayurvedic treatment options, individuals can find effective ways to manage and overcome sleep disorders, leading to improved health and well-being.