The Natural Beat

Tess May 14th, 2009

Growing old with grace is not easy. As one gets older, there are many problems that people have to struggle with. There are certain physiological changes in the human body that create conditions like sleep disorders and insomnia extremely common among older people.

Retirement from work can suddenly free up a large amount of time and many people do not know what to do with all the spare time. These changes affect their familial and sociological status. This is also the stage where many older children get married and leave home. Some lose their partners and have to handle bereavement. Women have an added issue where they have to deal with the typical menopausal syndrome.

Hot flushes are one of the symptoms that menopausal women have to tackle. Hot flushes are sudden but brief period where there is a sensation of heat. They cause excessive perspiration and some women actually have to get up in the middle of the night and change the wet sheets. Hot flushes are caused by a rush of adrenaline through the body. When this adrenalin reaches the brain, it disturbs sleep.

Menopausal syndrome is often treated with estrogen or hormonal replacement therapies. These therapies may help in other symptoms but it is doubtful whether they are effective in curing menopausal insomnia. Conversely, there are reports that hormonal replacement has side effects that may cause uterine or breast cancer.

Hot flushes are also associated with depression. This is the reason why most physicians will check women with hot flushes for depression symptoms. In cases where it is confirmed, treating depression becomes mandatory. There are many natural remedies for depression that can treat insomnia that has been caused by any underlying condition. Herbs like St. John’s Wort, ginseng, licorice, hops and lavender have a long history and have been known to help in inducing sleep. Teas made from valerian root, chamomile passionflower or lemon balm have a soothing effect and relieve stress and tension resulting in calm sleep.

Although herbs have little or no side effects, it is always advisable to take them in consultation with a specialist. For example Hops is not advisable for women with conditions of severe depression. St. John’s Wort should not be taken if you are already on anti seizure medications and SSRI antidepressants.

There is an inexplicable correlation between depression, menopause and insomnia and all three often occur simultaneously. Menopausal insomnia and depression are mild in nature and likely to cure themselves. Treating depression naturally is a healthier choice in such cases. Menopausal insomnia can also be managed with natural remedies. Determination, scheduled sleep timings, meditation, deep breathing and acceptance that it is a physiological and temporary condition will help you deal with menopausal insomnia.

References:

http://www.good-herbal-health.com/

http://ezineartic...ing-The-Symptoms-Of-Menopause-With-Natural-Remedies&id=299911

http://www.ctds.i...omnia_treatment.html

http://www.insomnia-connection.com/menopause-insomnia.html

Originally posted 2008-01-12 15:16:38. We hope you have enjoyed this Post From the Past!

• Alternative Therapies , Insomnia, Sleep Disorders , Women's Health
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