Sleeping trouble

[wilson83]

Can anyone recommend anything to get to sleep. Lately I have been finding it very difficult to drop off. I am not stressed or worried about anything. I am shattered and struggling today at work, so any ideas will be appreciated! Thanks in advance

[welshfox]

This may sound strange, but bananas have been proven to help sleep. I went to a sleep workshop a while ago and totally sympathise with you. before bed, I was advised to have a banana, to eat some lettuce - not iceburg but the one with the white liquid in the stems as that is full of sleep helping thingies, or to have a warm milky drink such as ovaltine or a milky decaf coffee or something.

Try and avoid any caffine for the next few days - you'll get a few withdrawal headaches but if you cant keep off it, try not to have any after about 6pm. That way, your brain wont be stimulated when your body needs sleep.

If you fancy, read a bit in bed but nothing too engrossing and defiantely not a book you cant put down - just something lighthearted and if your eyes feel heavy, dont wait before allowing yourself to settle into bed - do it straight away.

Another thing is the usual lavender room sprays or pillows. I've got a peppermint and nutmeg spray from boots which is fab and lovely smelling.

As a last resort, try changing your pillows.
Good luck

[janetsflower]

I sometimes use the herbal remedies like nytol etc which keep me asleep once i get there but don't help me nod off in the first place. To do that i usually try thinking about something relaxing, for me i plan a card or piece of jewellery that i can make as they are past times that i enjoy when i get the chance rather than thinking about a whole host of other things which keeps me awake. We have just had an electric blanket too and both my husband and i have slept so much better since its been on the bed on low thru the night, don't know why but its helped us

[andy-hughes]

If you've tried the obvious - early nights and so on, consider a sleep mask. Your eyes may be sensitive to even low light, so buy a soft sleep mask and wear that, see if it helps. A warm bath is always relaxing, and once you are in bed, try lying still aond concentrating on relaxing each bit of your body in turn - start with your toes and work upwards.

Good luck.

[Champagne]

I've heard that said about lettuce too. Definitely recommend trying that.

Also try to have a relaxing bath in the evening. It de-stresses you and helps you unwind. Read easy material before bedtime or do crossword puzzles (or similar).

[Carakeel]

Night time Kalms are great! No side effects, just lovely deep sleep! Horlicks just before bed helps too! 30 minute walk at night, then a hot bath and a mug of Horlicks should help. Best of luck! :o)

[wilson83]

Wow...didn't think I would get much response!! Thank you all for your help. I am going to try some of them tonight to see. I dont drink a lot of caffiene as it is because I have a heart condition, but the cup I didn't have this morning is certainly giving me a headache! Although I have been bad and just had one as I got home from work! I have lots of bananas at home, so will one tonight! I'll let you all know how i get on!

[joko]

try phenergan

its an antihistamine from the chemist but also used for sleep

try some floaty music on a looped cd

[jump79]

Listen to some classical music and sip on a glass of milk whilst reading an encyclopedia ... you'll drop off in no time. Sweet dreams.

[chazza]

Try valerian from your local holland and barratt, it stinks to high heaven but it will help you get a natural sleep about an hour after taking it