Millions of people struggle with sleeplessness and insomnia, and it can be difficult to find a solution. There are many medical issues, environmental factors, and mental health conditions that can cause you to experience trouble falling asleep. It might surprise you to learn that even things like neglecting regular home maintenance can impact your sleep quality.
Given that the lack of sleep can have serious consequences for your health, it's important to address any problems you have sleeping as soon as they begin. If you've found yourself struggling to fall asleep at night, keep reading to learn more about three potential ways you can improve your sleep.
1. Have your HVAC system inspected
Many people don't know how significantly your HVAC system can impact your sleep quality. There's no denying the impact on your health, or the fact that indoor air quality can have several negative effects, including affecting your ability to get enough rest at night. If it's been a while since you changed your filter or had your HVAC inspected, it's a good idea to have a technician come out right away.Air pollution has a demonstrated effect on the quality of your sleep. If your home has an HVAC system that hasn't been properly maintained, you're risking exposure to a variety of contaminants ranging from allergens to mould to pesticides. Experts recommend that you change your HVAC filter every 3 months. If your HVAC is over 10 years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.
2. Try CBD products
CBD is short for cannabidiol, which is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Products containing hemp byproducts were legalized for sale in the U.S. through the 2018 Farm Bill. Unlike weed, it doesn't contain THC, which is the chemical responsible for marijuana getting you high. Although many studies have yet to be completed on the potential positive effects of CBD, many experts are optimistic about its future. CBD products on the market encompass a variety of industries, ranging from beauty products to edibles like gummies and chocolates.While research is underway to determine the precise benefits of CBD for those who struggle with insomnia, enthusiasts rave about their experiences with CBD products. Many use it for everything from chronic pain to inflammation to nausea. The FDA even recently approved its first CBD treatment for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. These syndromes are both rare forms of epilepsy.
As with anything you plan to ingest or make a part of your wellness routine, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about CBD before you begin using it regularly. Your doctor can help you understand how it may interact with your prescription medications or impact any health conditions you may have.
3. Consult a doctor
Insomnia can be a symptom of several mental health conditions. Even if you don't have a mental health condition, stress or situational factors can cause you to experience insomnia that can be alleviated by medication or talk therapy. Your physical health and mental health are tied together, and neglecting either one can result in several unpleasant symptoms that can include having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. You may also have one of several medical conditions that can cause sleeplessness, so it's worth a trip to the doctor if your insomnia impacts your quality of life.A good first step to dealing with lack of sleep is to ensure your environment is healthy and your indoor air is safe. Wellness products like melatonin and CBD can also help. If your sleep issues continue, it's a good idea to seek help from a doctor or medical professional. A therapist can help in many situations, while your primary care physician may be able to help you figure out if your insomnia is being caused by a medical condition. No matter what you decide to do to treat your difficulties sleeping, it's important to prioritize addressing sleep issues quickly to avoid the negative side effects associated with sleep deprivation.