Sleep

Poor sleep or insomnia can be triggered by a wide range of factors. These may include:

• Stress or anxiety – Worries about work, relationships, health, or finances can keep the mind overactive at night.
• Poor sleep habits – Irregular sleep schedules, too much screen time before bed, or an uncomfortable sleep environment can disrupt your body’s natural rhythm.
• Caffeine, alcohol or nicotine – These substances can interfere with falling or staying asleep.
• Medical conditions – Pain, asthma, acid reflux, or chronic illnesses may prevent restful sleep.
• Mental health issues – Conditions like depression and anxiety are often closely linked to insomnia.
• Shift work or travel – Changes in routine or time zones can affect your circadian rhythm.
• Medication side effects – Some medicines, including those for blood pressure or mental health, can impact sleep quality.
• Hormonal changes – Menopause, pregnancy, or thyroid imbalances can also contribute to disrupted sleep.
  
  

Understanding the underlying cause is key to finding the most effective treatment for improving sleep.

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects both the quality and duration of sleep. People with insomnia may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty falling asleep, even when tired
• Waking up frequently during the night
• Trouble getting back to sleep after waking
• Waking up too early and being unable to return to sleep
• Feeling tired or unrefreshed upon waking
• Daytime fatigue or low energy
• Difficulty concentrating or poor memory
• Irritability, mood swings, or anxiety related to sleep problems
  
  

These symptoms can occur occasionally or become long-term (chronic), often interfering with daily life, work, and wellbeing. If you experience any of these regularly, it may be time to seek support or treatment.

If you're struggling with occasional sleeplessness, there are over-the-counter (OTC) treatments available in the UK to help manage short-term insomnia. These treatments are designed to make it easier to fall asleep and improve sleep quality.

Common OTC options include:

• Diphenhydramine – An antihistamine with sedative effects, found in products like Nytol Original. It helps promote drowsiness and may reduce night-time awakenings.
• Promethazine – Another sedating antihistamine used in some sleep aids. It can help people fall asleep more easily but may cause next-day drowsiness.
• Herbal remedies – Products containing valerian root, hops, or passionflower may support more natural sleep, though evidence of their effectiveness is mixed.
  
  

These products are intended for short-term use only, typically no longer than a few nights to a week. If your sleep problems persist, it's important to speak to a pharmacist or clinician to explore other treatment options.