Why is it difficult to fall asleep when closing my eyes, always thinking about things? What should I do?

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
It is usually difficult to fall asleep with eyes closed due to factors such as significant psychological stress, poor sleep habits, anxiety disorders, depression, and sleep apnea syndrome. Behaviors like prolonged use of electronic devices before bedtime and consumption of caffeinated beverages can also affect sleep quality and lead to difficulty falling asleep. Keeping the bedroom quiet, dark, and cool can help promote sleep.

Generally speaking, the main reasons for constantly thinking about things with closed eyes and difficulty falling asleep include significant psychological stress, bad sleep habits, anxiety disorders, depression, and sleep apnea syndrome. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. High Psychological Stress

Modern life moves at a fast pace, and pressure from work, study, and other sources may cause excessive thinking before bedtime, making it difficult to relax. This psychological stress activates the brain's stress response, causing persistent thoughts and affecting sleep onset. Establishing regular pre-sleep routines, such as taking a hot bath or listening to soft music, can help relax the brain.

2. Poor Sleep Habits

Extended use of electronic devices before bedtime or consumption of caffeinated beverages can negatively affect sleep quality, leading to difficulty falling asleep. Keeping the bedroom quiet, dark, and cool can help promote better sleep.

3. Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are primarily associated with high stress levels and excessive fatigue. Anxiety causes the amygdala in the brain to become overactive, releasing excessive stress hormones that interfere with the normal functioning of the cerebral cortex, making it difficult to fall asleep. Symptoms may include rapid breathing and sweating. Patients can take medications such as Sertraline Hydrochloride Capsules, Olanzapine-Fluoxetine Capsules, or Venlafaxine Hydrochloride Sustained-Release Capsules under the guidance of a qualified physician.

4. Depression

Depression may be related to imbalances in various neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These neurotransmitters regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. Patients with depression often have low levels of serotonin, which can lead to the aforementioned symptoms, possibly accompanied by self-blame or suicidal thoughts. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Paroxetine Tablets, Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, or Fluoxetine Hydrochloride Capsules for treatment.

5. Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Sleep apnea syndrome is usually related to upper airway obstruction, especially when lying on one's back. Airway blockage can lead to insufficient oxygen supply, triggering the body's emergency response, including elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate. These changes disrupt the normal sleep cycle, making it difficult to enter deep sleep, potentially accompanied by symptoms such as headaches and memory decline. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as Zanamivir Inhalation Powder, Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, or Atenolol Tablets for treatment.

Soaking feet in warm water before bedtime can promote blood circulation, relieve fatigue accumulated during the day, and help relax the body and mind.

Related Articles

View All