subject: Sleep Disorders and Menopause [print this page] When you think of the symptoms of menopause, the first one that comes to many people minds is loss of sleep. Indeed, this is certainly one of the most common symptoms, and in some women possibly one of the most annoying and aggravating. If you are unable to sleep, it will most certainly affect every other area of your life. Here are some of the reasons behind this problem, when caused by menopause.
Studies have shown that women who are experiencing menopause symptoms are 3-4 times more likely to also have problems in sleeping than non-menopausal women. The biggest problems are:
Insomnia inability to fall sleep, or when awakening several times throughout the night
Snoring the problem of snoring can suddenly start either in perimenopause or menopause, but can be signs of other health issues.
Sleep apnea sudden pauses in breathing, or gasping for breath while sleeping
The main problem besides losing sleep, are the side effects that this causes during daylight hours. If you need to function at a high level for a job, this is real problem when sleep is insufficient to bring the energy necessary to perform your duties at a job. Also many women report memory problems due to lack of sleep, as well as problems with reasoning and judgment. These symptoms only get worse if a woman cannot find a way to "catch up" on the sleep she is missing. It's not always convenient to nap at work!
If you are looking for some natural sleep aids, here are few that have been used for this purpose:
Chamomile this is usually taken as a tea, and has long been known to help calm the mind and help with sleep
Kava increasingly seen as a popular way to "chill" out, sometimes served at kava bars in trendy areas.
Lemon balm used not only as a sleep aid, but also for other symptoms of menopause as well, and even indigestion
Passionflower relieves muscle tension and calms the nerves, also used in relieving pain
Valerian root used primarily as a relief for menstrual cramps, also beneficial for insomnia and general relief of tension
We all know how important sleep is to your health, so if you aren't getting at least 6-8 hours sleep each night and you feel is you are stressed out, find some relief. Another good way to help relax at night is meditation, find a class on meditation and you may find a hobby that helps you sleep better too!
There are many hot flashes and symptoms of menopause and also many cures for these symptoms. Learn as much as you can about them, and you can take positive steps to find relief for yourself.
Learn more by visiting us at natural menopause remedies site and reading our massive article collection!
