What causes severe insomnia and sleep deprivation, and what should be done about it?
Jan 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, severe insomnia and sleep deprivation may be caused by excessive heart fire, blood stasis obstructing the channels, obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, and other conditions. In daily life, it is advisable to reduce consumption of spicy and stimulating foods, and increase intake of light, easily digestible foods such as egg custard, rice porridge, and Chinese yam porridge, which are more beneficial for health.
In general, the causes of severe insomnia and sleep deprivation may include excessive heart fire, blood stasis obstructing the meridians, obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome, hyperthyroidism, angina pectoris, and other conditions. Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Excessive Heart Fire
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), excessive heart fire is considered one of the common causes of insomnia. This condition can be triggered by emotional instability, excessive thinking, or prolonged mental stress. Symptoms may include irritability, quick temper, and severe insomnia. Treatment may involve taking medications such as Tianwang Buxin Dan, Niuhuang Jiedu Pian, or Daochi Wan under medical guidance. Additionally, patients should avoid spicy and stimulating foods such as chili peppers, coffee, and strong tea, which may aggravate heart fire. Consuming fresh fruits rich in vitamin B, such as oranges, strawberries, and citrus fruits, is recommended.
2. Blood Stasis Obstructing the Meridians
Prolonged inactivity or sedentary lifestyle may impair the circulation of qi and blood, leading to blood stasis obstructing the meridians. Symptoms include dull skin, localized swelling, and severe insomnia. Treatment options include taking Xuefu Zhuyu Wan, Compound Danshen Tablets, or Tongxinluo Capsules under a doctor’s supervision. Acupuncture may also be used to stimulate specific points, regulate meridian function, and improve the flow of qi and blood, thereby alleviating symptoms of blood stasis.
3. Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome
This syndrome is typically caused by narrowing of the upper airway. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of breathing cessation (apnea) and reduced breathing (hypopnea) during sleep, resulting in inadequate oxygen supply and poor sleep quality. It may lead to severe insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and increased nighttime urination. Medications such as Aminophylline Tablets, Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Tablets, or Clomipramine Hydrochloride Tablets may be prescribed under medical supervision.
4. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is usually caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones. Elevated thyroid hormone levels increase nervous system excitability, leading to symptoms such as severe insomnia, snoring, and excessive sweating. Treatment may include antithyroid medications such as Propylthiouracil Tablets, Methimazole Tablets, or Carbimazole Tablets, taken under a doctor's guidance.
5. Angina Pectoris
Angina pectoris is generally caused by insufficient blood supply from the coronary arteries. It is typically accompanied by chest pain or discomfort, which may worsen at night and disrupt sleep, leading to symptoms such as severe insomnia, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Medications such as Su Xiao Jiu Xin Wan, Shexiang Baoxin Wan, or Captopril Tablets may be taken as directed by a physician.
In daily life, it is advisable to reduce consumption of spicy and irritating foods and instead eat light, easily digestible foods such as egg custard, rice porridge, and yam congee, which are beneficial for overall health.
