Falling asleep right after going to bed may seem like a utopia for most people. Unable to close their eyes, many of them get desperate and end up self-medicating: however, the action is risky, since sleeping pills can cause adverse effects.
Insomnia is a disorder that consists of difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Otorhinolaryngologist Amadeu Ribeiro, from OtorrinoDF, recommends that the patient practice sleep hygiene before resorting to medication.
“It is estimated that 72% of Brazilians have difficulty sleeping and staying in deep sleep. But insomnia is only considered when the problem persists for three months or more. Before taking the medicine, it’s important to try to put some tips into practice, as the medicine can cause dangerous effects”, says the otolaryngologist.
Individuals who self-medicate because they have difficulty sleeping may be vulnerable to side effects, such as:
- Slowing of reflexes;
- Difficulty driving;
- Dizziness and imbalance;
- chemical dependency;
- Crisis of psychosis and/or hallucinations;
- Worsening of difficulty sleeping;
- Difficulty concentrating;
- Sleepwalking;
- Sedation.
Before taking any medicine, it is important that the patient undergoes tests to find out the tolerance and predisposition to the effects of the medicine. “Only then is it safe to prescribe, for example, zolpidem or rivotril”, says Ribeiro.
What really works?
The expert says that he prefers to prescribe drugs that are not addictive and warns that use should not exceed two years. However, before resorting to remedies, it is recommended that sleep hygiene be carried out.
The practice consists of simple actions, such as always going to bed at the same time, turning off screens, regularly practicing physical activities, not abusing energy drinks and taking a warm shower before going to bed.
“A person with insomnia is susceptible to illnesses such as anxiety and depression. An individual who sleeps well has a better cognitive disposition and memory”, says Ribeiro.
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