Sleep issues, such as insomnia and sleep apnea are quite common nowadays, especially among people with heart and circulatory diseases. In fact, about 44% of heart patients deal with sleep issues. There can be various different reasons for sleep issues, such as breathlessness or complications after surgery. According to a 2011 study, about 50% of heart surgery patients experience sleep issues after the procedure. The situation can be even worse from certain medications, such as beta blockers.

Hence, we decided to search for some of the best possible ways to deal with insomnia. Here are some of the most useful things you can do if you’re experiencing sleep disturbances.

The Best Ways to Deal with Insomnia

Change Your Mindset

Changing the way how you think about sleep is the first and most crucial step. Thinking about how you’ve slept will only make things worse. Hence, try to take your mind off sleep by reading a good book. Moreover, you can also learn how sleep works, such as that it goes in cycles, which will help you adjust the expectations of your sleep.

Improve Your Sleeping Environment

Your sleep environment is another crucial thing you have to adjust and improve for better sleep. So, try going to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning, including weekends. Moreover, don’t use your phone and computer at least an hour before bedtime. Make sure there is no TV in your bedroom, and avoid drinking alcohol or eating before bedtime. 

Start a Sleep Diary

Staring a sleeping diary in which you will note down all causes and patterns of sleep disturbance. Your detailed sleep diary can be extremely useful, especially if you later take it to your physician to see it.

Try Cognitive Behavior Therapy

CBT, or cognitive behavior therapy, which is designed for insomnia can be extremely helpful in managing your sleep disorder. This therapy is especially important as there is often a psychological element to insomnia, which gets worse if you start to associate trying to sleep with frustration.

Sleeping Pills

Sleeping pills are usually a good idea if you’re using them for a short time period. These medications are extremely beneficial for some people, while they can have side effects. Always talk to your physician before taking sleeping pills.

Relaxation

Some simple relaxation techniques can help you boost sleep. Some of the best ways to relax are by listening to audio-guided meditation or progressive muscle relaxation. Try these techniques and enjoy a good night’s sleep.