Explore the risks of sleep medications and discover healthy alternatives to manage sleep disorders effectively. With an in-depth analysis of the implications, learn how natural remedies and lifestyle changes can aid you in achieving a good night's sleep.

Key takeaways

• Over-the-counter sleep aids, while beneficial for some, carry several risks and side effects.
• Prescription sleep medications can lead to dependency and result in harmful side effects for some people.
• Alternatives such as melatonin, herbal supplements and lifestyle changes may be an alternative option, but always consult your GP first.
• Healthy sleep habits paired with natural sleep aids can help manage sleep disorders effectively.

If you find yourself struggling to drift off into a peaceful slumber, you may be tempted to resort to sleep medications. These can seem like an immediate remedy for those living with sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea or chronic insomnia.

However, sleep aids, despite their potential to reduce daytime sleepiness and seemingly increase sleep hours, can lead to the symptoms of sleep deprivation  and a host of other health conditions for some people.

Why sleep is important

Sleep is arguably the most important time of the day. Getting your sleep right is important for many reasons. The effects of sleep deprivation are huge and can affect your quality of life.

Some of the ways sleep is essential for health include:

• Supports brain function: Sleep plays a critical role in cognitive processes such as learning, memory, and problem-solving. Deep sleep helps in consolidating memories and information learned throughout the day.
• Boosts mood and mental health: lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Quality sleep helps to maintain your emotional and mental health.
• Blood glucose regulation: good quality sleep is important for maintaining stable glucose levels throughout the day.
• Strengthens immune system: sleep supports a strong immune system.
• Concentration and productivity: sleep deprivation symptoms can result in decreased productivity, slower reaction times, and reduced concentration levels.
• Weight management: lack of sleep can disrupt the regulation of hormones that control appetite, leading to increased hunger and weight gain.

How do prescription sleep aids work?

There are many available sleep medications in Australia. Popularly recognised under brand names such as Valium, Temaze, or Stilnox, these sleep aids can appear to be an effective solution by inducing sleep. They may even help to alleviate anxiety and foster calmness in some people.

However, the sleep these medications induce may not be the right kind of sleep your body requires. They tend to interfere with essential sleep architecture and the physiological benefits of sleep. Simply put, these medications sedate you, providing the illusion of sleep without the full benefits.

Even more concerning is that extended use of prescription sleeping pills can result in potential side effects, including:

• Constipation
• Diarrhoea
• Convulsion
• Headache
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Digestive issues
• Heartburn
• Muscle weakness
• Dizziness
• Poor concentration

Why sleep medications should be approached with caution

Prescription sleep aids carry risks beyond common side effects. They can lead to both physiological and psychological dependency, which could result in significant long-term problems. This is particularly true for benzodiazepines, typically prescribed for short-term use.

When used in the treatment of insomnia, these sleep medications can worsen your condition over time as your body becomes reliant on them. Once you cease taking them, your insomnia could potentially return more intensely.

Additionally, prescription sleep aids can trigger allergic reactions in some people. If you notice any of the following symptoms, cease taking the medication immediately and seek professional help:

• Chest pain
• Blurred vision
• Itching and hives
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Inflammation of the eyes, lips, face, tongue, or throat

Another critical concern associated with conventional sleep medications is the risk of parasomnia. This term refers to a range of unusual sleeping behaviours, including sleepwalking and bedwetting. Prescription sleep aids can instigate parasomnias such as sleep talking, sleep eating, and even sleep driving, which can have severe consequences.

Alternative solutions for sleep problems

Recognising the risks associated with sleep medications, it's crucial to look for safer, healthier alternatives for a good night's sleep.

Circadian and Seremind® offer potential alternatives. Circadian is a slow-release melatonin that research shows can improve sleep architecture, increase sleep duration, and support brain health.

Seremind® is an evidence-based herbal supplement, containing Silexan. This is a lavender oil formulation that has been found to have positive effects on sleep, anxiety, and nervous tension for some people.

Remember, it's crucial to consult with your GP before incorporating any new supplements into your routine.

Building better sleep habits

Establishing healthy sleep habits is a vital step towards sleeping better, without the need for prescription sleep medications. The foundation of proper sleep lies in maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, practising good sleep hygiene, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise.

Combining these lifestyle habits with natural sleep aids can often bring significant improvements in managing circadian rhythm sleep disorders and other sleep difficulties.

Seeking advice from a sleep expert can further assist you in improving your sleep habits and guiding you towards dietary supplements that can aid your quest for more sleep.

In your journey towards better sleep, consider turning to digital health platforms such as Vively. Vively is a comprehensive health app, providing extensive information about insomnia, lifestyle medicine, and good sleep habits. Along with providing you with personalised nutritional advice, Vively also offers a glucose tracker to help you monitor your glucose levels before, during, and post-sleep.

Glucose control plays a crucial role in sleep health. By optimising your glucose levels, you can significantly improve your sleep quality. Vively's wellness-focused approach aims to help users maintain a balanced lifestyle that promotes better sleep and overall health.

Remember, prioritising your sleep is not a luxury; it's a necessity. Understanding the importance of sleep and choosing the right methods to achieve quality sleep is an investment in your overall health and wellbeing. Seek professional advice to determine the best methods to help you fall asleep quicker and stay asleep longer.