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SLEEPING PROBLEMS
Approximately 35% to 50% of women between 40 and 54 years of age report problems with sleeping. Hot flashes that occur at night (night sweats) are the most common cause of sleep issues, but even 33% of perimenopausal women experience sleep problems in the absence of night sweats. Sleep problems obviously lead to fatigue, which then can lead to lowered productivity and often to depression.
An interesting 1998 National Sleep Foundation survey reported peri- and postmenopausal women, when compared to premenopausal women:- Slept less
- Experienced more insomnia symptoms
- Were twice as likely to use prescription-sleeping medications.
- The study also indicated that most people do not talk to their health care practitioner about sleeping problems nor does the practitioner question them about their sleep.
Insomnia may consist of:- Difficulty falling asleep
- Difficulty staying asleep through night
- Awakening prematurely without being able to return to sleep
Night sweats (hot flashes at night) are the most common cause. There are a number of other contributors to sleep problems:- Generalized effects of the menopausal transition such as anxiety, and urinary frequency secondary to lower estrogen levels.
- Avoidance of dealing with unresolved emotions such as anger, sadness, and anxiety.
- Generalized aging effects
- Increased stress levels
- Restless leg syndrome
- Secondary effect of chronic illness
Unfortunately, sleep deprivation can make the menopausal transition even more difficult and challenging. It can also lead to other symptoms such as fatigue and lethargy, inability to concentrate, lack of motivation, difficulty performing tasks, increased tension and irritability, anxiety, bad moods, and depression.
Fortunately, there is a wealth of options for treating sleep problems starting with lifestyle changes, supplements, and as a last resort, prescription drugs. One of the most effective programs for improving sleep has been published in 2004 by a Harvard scientist, Gregg Jacobs, in his book, Say Goodnight to Insomnia. It contains a 6-week program that has been proven to improve sleep for chronic insomniacs by 100%, create normal sleep for 75%, and help 90% reduce or eliminate sleeping pills You can read a review and purchase this book at the Wise Passage Health Store.
If you need assistance in walking through this program, or in addressing the complexity of your sleep problems, consider the following Wise Passage services that will bring you sleep success. Now is the time to start feeling better!- If you are ready to pursue feeling better now, take our free online assessment. It’s quick and educational.
- If you are ready for a Personal Menopause Advisor, you can connect with a compassionate, Wise Passage Nurse Consultant who will insure that you find relief from your symptoms based on your personal preferences. Sessions include the Menopause Wisdom Guides.
- If you want to go even deeper with your menopause education efforts, we recommend that you explore our 60 Menopause Wisdom Guides written by an RN, a Nurse Practitioner, and an OB/GYN physician.
- Do you have more questions and concerns? We are available to address whatever is on your mind. Call Wise Passage at 1-800-456-3623 to talk with a customer service representative.
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