One of the unpleasant companions of the coronavirus is insomnia. Do not panic, this is a natural reaction of the body, which fights infection.
Scientific director of the network of clinics for immunorehabilitation and preventive medicine Grand Clinic
Good reasons
Resource scarcity.
In any disease, most of the nutrients are spent on performing a vital function – the regeneration of damaged tissues. The rest of the needs temporarily recede into the background. These include maintaining the required level of neurotransmitters in the brain. These are biologically active chemicals that transmit impulses between nerve cells. First of all, those that are responsible for relaxation come under attack.
Lifestyle change.
Due to bed rest, the usual activities that cause fluctuations in temperature and brain activity do not occur. As a result, circadian rhythms shift – a cyclical change in biological processes associated with the change of day and night.
Neurologist, neurophysiologist
Recovery course
Frequent awakenings, trouble falling asleep, and a decrease in the quality of night rest can also occur after recovery. The valid period is three to four days. If the situation does not change, it is worth contacting a specialist – a neurologist, somnologist or preventive medicine doctor. The first thing to do is check your melatonin levels. It regulates not only sleep, but also participates in the restoration of immunity. If it is not enough, substitution therapy is used. The problem can be caused by a lack of oxygen due to impaired lung function. In this case, it is important to gradually increase physical activity, following the doctor’s recommendations.
Healthy sleep
The optimum temperature in the recreation room should be between 17-20 degrees. Under these conditions, melatonin is produced better.
For relaxation, blankets with glass beads that simulate hugs have proven themselves well. They were created for people with impaired motor activity, and now they are used to correct anxiety and sleep quality.
In the evening, replace the cool blue light on your phone with a warm one.
After lunch, it is recommended to eat a small amount of dried fruits and nuts. They are precursors of 5HTP-tryptophan, which has a calming, hypnotic effect on the nervous system.
Teas – both green and black – contain tonic substances. In the evening, it is better to refuse them and drink soothing herbal infusions. Hibiscus, fruit preparations, ivan tea, chamomile are suitable. Before brewing, make sure you have no contraindications.