What are the treatment options for insomnia?
Disease description:
During this period, my sleep quality at night has been very poor; I often toss and turn and can't fall asleep. I've felt listless in the mornings. I would like to ask what is the best way to treat insomnia and what precautions should be taken?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Main methods for treating insomnia include the following aspects:
1. Adjusting the sleep environment: Ensure the sleeping environment is quiet, comfortable, dark, and at an appropriate temperature. Use blackout curtains, earplugs, or white noise machines to minimize disturbances.
2. Improving unhealthy pre-sleep habits: Establish a regular sleep schedule and avoid vigorous exercise or consuming stimulatory foods, beverages, and medications before bedtime. Additionally, relaxation techniques such as meditation or warm water baths can be practiced to help relax the mind and body.
3. Psychotherapy: Insomnia associated with psychological factors, such as anxiety or depression, can be improved through methods like cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy.
4. Pharmacological treatment: Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as hypnotics, anti-anxiety drugs, or antidepressants can be used to alleviate symptoms of insomnia.
5. Physical therapies: Treatments such as light therapy and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may help improve insomnia symptoms under specific circumstances.
6. Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, balanced diet, appropriate physical activity, and avoiding electronic devices before bedtime are all helpful in improving insomnia.
