Ayurvedic Name: Anidra
Description:
Anidra is insomnia or lack of sleep. It is resulting from excess Vata in the nervous system, which leads to restlessness, overthinking, and disturbed sleep patterns. Ayurveda advocates warm milk with nutmeg, herbal teas, head massages with Brahmi oil, and relaxation techniques to promote sound sleep.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Anidra (Insomnia): Difficulty falling or staying asleep, leading to persistent tiredness.
- Vata Dosa: Vāta imbalance causes restlessness and an inability to fall asleep.
- Pitta Dosa: Excessive Pitta creates an overactive mind, causing difficulty in relaxation.
- Kapha Dosa: Kapha excess may cause excessive sleepiness during the day and restlessness at night.
Diagnosis:
Polysomnography (Sleep Study)
Risk Factors:
- Dietary Factors: Inadequate nutrition, especially a deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals, can affect the production of neurotransmitters, leading to Anidra (insomnia). Overeating or consuming heavy meals close to bedtime can also disrupt sleep patterns.
- Lifestyle Factors: Stress, excessive screen time, and irregular sleeping patterns can negatively affect the quality of sleep. A sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity during the day can also contribute to insomnia and poor sleep.
Complications:
- Insomnia (Anidra): Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to fatigue and reduced mental functioning.
- Sleep Disturbances (Nidra Dosha): Disturbed sleep cycles affecting physical and mental well-being.
- Fatigue (Durbalata): Extreme tiredness resulting from inadequate or poor-quality sleep.
Epidemeology:
Anidra (Insomnia) is commonly seen in individuals suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, or physical illnesses that affect the sleep cycle. The prevalence of insomnia is higher among older adults and individuals with sedentary lifestyles. Poor sleep hygiene, excessive screen time, and caffeine or alcohol consumption in the evening also contribute to the development of insomnia.