There’s nothing worse than getting in bed after a long, exhausting day and simply not being able to sleep. And even though we’re thoroughly tired, we are somehow kept from sleep by an internal process we neither understand nor can control. Insomnia strikes us all at some point in our lives; it leaves us feeling mentally and physically drained, and unprepared for another long day ahead.
Those who suffer from insomnia periodically will try all manner of solutions to induce sleep. From warm milk at bedtime to sleep masks and earplugs, there’s nothing we won’t try once to put insomnia at bay. For some, a glass of wine or bottle of beer seems like an appropriate way to combat insomnia. And while alcohol before bed will often induce a speedy sleep, in the end alcohol and insomnia just don’t mix.
The combination of alcohol and insomnia works something like this: the introduction of alcohol induces sleep quickly. However, it also begins to instantly dehydrate your body. The result is a fitful sleep that stops short of REM required for a deep, rejuvenating rest. Instead, you will most likely wake just several hours after falling asleep. The reason? Your body needs water. So, despite what you may think, alcohol and insomnia is one of the worst combinations.
Short bouts of insomnia may be inevitable in every person’s life. Sometimes, just a change in routine can help you get back to resting peacefully. Darken your bedroom, play soothing music, or limit food and beverages before bed. If, however, insomnia continues to plague you, you may consider seeing your doctor. For ongoing problems with insomnia, there is effective medication – both prescription and over-the-counter – that will safely help you fall asleep.
Getting adequate sleep is absolutely crucial to a healthy lifestyle. No one can be expected to function successfully in life without ample rest. But combining alcohol and insomnia is simply not the way to go in order to ensure a restful sleep. Look instead to more natural ways to combat insomnia or seek professional guidance from your doctor.
Michelle Bery
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/alcohol-and-insomnia-a-bad-combination-91390.html
I took a Lunesta/Amoban combination and STILL can't sleep….?
i’ve had terrible insomnia lately. Been to doc. There are no underlying causes. I am eating right, no alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, taking warm baths, trying to follow all the sleep advice. He tried me on Ambien and no effect. Then a strong does on Lunesta/Amoban. The does is for 7 days when needed. I took them and slept soundly. Next night, OK without. Next, took them and slept soundly. Next night nothing and terrible sleep. Took them and no effect! Took me 21/2 hours to fall into some light crappy sleep. What’s going on? I don’t want to take even stronger drugs but am so p******d off at my body for not being able to sleep. I am soooooo tired too.
i have been having the same problem. but what the dr. prescribed for me worked.
try also taking the herb melatonin. our bodies produce that, but not maybe enough for us to get the proper sleep. the pharmacist told me about it. so i take this instead of the prescription. please try it.
References :
I’ve met a number of drug addicts in my group. Pyschological trauma seems to be the one thing that ties us all together. I haven’t met an addict yet who hadn’t had something bad happen to them.