Some 30 million Americans are victims of a sleep disorder called sleep apnea sickness or in other terms obstructive sleep apnea, sleep apnea or central sleep apnea. Numerous others are predisposed and have a high risk of developing the sickness. Adult males, have the highest odds at about 50/50 that their breathing is not normal when they are sleeping. It is very important that anyone who might be experiencing this problem is predisposed, or knows someone they care about who has this sickness, should have a clear and concise understanding about it.

What you can do about sleep apnea:
The following steps help many people with sleep apnea sleep better:

Stop all use of alcohol or sleep medicines as they relax the muscles in the back of the throat, making it harder for you to breathe.
Sleep on your side or hip instead of your back. Find a high quality side sleeper pillow for maximum comfort
If you are overweight, lose weight.
If you still have problems, speak to your doctor. There are special masks that you can wear over your nose and mouth while you are sleeping. This mask is called a “continuous positive airway pressure,” or CPAP. It will keep your airway open by adding pressure to the air you breathe. The mask helps most people with sleep apnea. Surgery may be necessary, in a very few cases, to remove extra tissue or tonsils from the throat.

Additional information on Sleep Apnea:
Sleep apnea occurs in all age groups and both sexes but is more common in men (and it may be under diagnosed in women). It has been estimated that as many as 18 million Americans have sleep apnea. Four percent of middle-aged men and 2 percent of middle-aged women have sleep apnea along with excessive daytime sleepiness. People most likely to have or develop sleep apnea include those who snore loudly and also are overweight, or have high blood pressure, or have some physical abnormality in the nose, throat, or other parts of the upper airway. Sleep apnea sickness seems to run in some families, suggesting a possible genetic basis.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
Fatigue and tiredness during the day is one symptom of sleep apnea. Another symptom is loud snoring; if the loud snoring is repeatedly punctuated by brief periods of silence or choking sounds, the individual is certain to have obstructive sleep apnea.

Ways that sleep apnea affects your Life:
Actually, sleep apnea sickness may already have affected you more than you know. Chances are things will improve for you once the diagnosis is made. If your sleep problem can be solved by not using alcohol or sleep medicine, losing weight if you’re overweight and sleeping on your side, you will quickly begin to feel much more rested and energetic. If you must wear the mask while sleeping, you should soon feel the benefits. If you need surgery, you’ll be able to sleep better afterwards. Whatever your treatment, remember that you are not alone and help is available.

Related sleep apnea symptoms can include:
Loud snoring
Change in personality
Depression
Rapid weight gain
Reduced sex drive and impotence
High blood pressure
Restless sleep; the repeated struggle to breath can be associated with a great deal of movement.
Depressed mood and/or irritability
Snorting, gasping, choking during sleep
Insomnia
Frequent nocturnal urination
Confusion upon awakening
Difficulty concentrating
Morning headaches
Sleep that is not refreshing
Nocturnal snorting, gasping, choking (may wake self up)
High blood pressure
Overweight
Irritability
A dry mouth upon awakening
Excessive perspiring during sleep
Restless sleep
Heartburn

Sleep Apnea can be a very serious matter:
It is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. The risks of undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea include heart attacks, strokes, impotence, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, obstructive sleep apnea causes daytime sleepiness that can result in accidents, lost productivity and interpersonal relationship problems. The severity of the symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe.

For many sleep apnea patients, their bed partners or family members are the first ones to suspect that something is wrong, usually from their heavy snoring and apparent struggle to breathe. Coworkers or friends of the sleep apnea victim may notice that the individual falls asleep during the day at inappropriate times (such as while driving a car, working, or talking).

During the apneic event, the person is unable to breathe in oxygen and to exhale carbon dioxide, resulting in low levels of oxygen and increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. The reduction in oxygen and increase in carbon dioxide alert the brain to resume breathing and cause an arousal. With each arousal, a signal is sent from the brain to the upper airway muscles to open the airway; breathing is resumed, often with a loud snort or gasp. Frequent arousals, although necessary for breathing to restart, prevent the patient from getting enough restorative, deep sleep.

For many cases of sleep apnea sickness, treatment often consists of avoiding sleeping on one’s back, even if you’re wearing a mask. To help aid in a comfortable sleep choose a pillow that allows you to sleep on your side, one that elevates your head and neck allowing your airway passage to open properly while sleeping. Using a sleep apnea pillow is an unconventional, however beneficial and inexpensive sleep apnea treatment.

Razvan Marian Jr
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/sleep-apnea-sickness-what-is-it-all-about-73414.html

I need to try an over the counter sleep aid before I go to my doctor and get a prescription, but with so many of them out there, I don’t know which one to buy….any help?

I have suffered from insomnia for years. I’ve tried them all. The really strong ones are benadryl (i know its an allergy med but the same drug is used for insomnia in many OTC’s and Rx’s) and dramamine (for motion sickness and insomnia). Tylenol Simply Sleep is OK but I noticed that after taking it even for just a few days, you wont sleep with out it! It also gave me head aches. The other meds made me feel really tired in the morning and I just felt I couldn’t get up. The best RX i got (no head aches, felt awake in the morning, and was able to get a sleep pattern after taking it for 3-4 days then stopping..) was Temazapam. BUT this med is really addictive. If you do take it, just don’t take it for more than 5-7 days in a row. If you have an addictive personality, then you need to stay away from this. The natural remedy I found helped quite a bit was Hylands Calms Forte. You take a little for anxiety or more for insomnia! I posted a link below..

Let’s face it… we live in a “go-go” world! Our lifestyle is harried, our food is fast and statistics now show it’s taking a toll on one of the most important parts of our life–our sleep. The 2002 National Sleep Foundation (NSF) Sleep in America poll found that 74 percent of American adults are experiencing a sleeping problem a few nights a week or more, 39% get less than seven hours of sleep each weeknight, and more than one in three (37%) are so sleepy during the day that it interferes with daily activities. Our fast paced way of life is getting the best of us. What about you?

Answer True or False?

1. Five hours of sleep at night is good enough.

2. It’s ok to skimp on sleep during the work week as long as you make up the time over the weekends.

3. The effects of sleep deprivation are short-term (e.g., darkness under the eyes and dull and/or splotchy skin after a bad night’s sleep) and has no effect on long-term health.

4. Drinking caffeine early in the evening does not affect sleep.

5. Keeping a TV or computer in the bedroom has no effect on sleep.

6. The amount of sleep I get has nothing to do with my weight.

If you answered “true” to two or more questions you may need to make a few changes in order to achieve the highly coveted “good” night’s sleep and keep yourself in optimal health.

Experts suggest that most people need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night but that doesn’t apply to everyone. Some people only require 6 hours while those who are more active or have an illness may require more.

So how do you know if you are getting enough quality sleep? Those who are sleep deprived often look the part. Dark circles and the “sleepy” look are common, but they also can have unpredictable moods, drowsiness during the day, have difficulty concentrating, weak immune systems, recover poorly from injury and get sick more often. Sounding a little too familiar?

In fact, poor sleep has been found to impair the ability to perform tasks involving memory, learning, and logical reasoning. This may contribute to mistakes or unfulfilled potential at school or on the job as well as strained relationships at home. Even more disturbing, inadequate amounts of sleep have been linked to an increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain, obesity, heart disease and depression, to name just a few.

But what if you go to bed early, have every intention on logging in your 7-9 hours but only to lie awake watching the clock…eyes wide open? Well, there are several simple adjustments you can make to stack the cards in favor of a better night’s sleep.

1) Avoid watching TV before bed…especially in bed!- The bed should be reserved for two things…sleep and romance…not Desperate Housewives or football! Research shows that those who experienced the most sleep disturbances had televisions in their bedrooms and used the TV to fall asleep.

2) Try a different pillow or mattress. It’s scary to think how long some of us have been sleeping on the same pillows and mattresses for years and years. Does your mattress provide the support you like? Do you wake with your back aching? Is there enough room for you and your sleep partner? Do you sleep better, or worse, when you sleep away from home? These are all things to ask yourself to determine if your mattress could be the “sabotager” of your good night’s sleep. Or more simply, just replacing your pillow with a new, fresh, higher quality version could be all that you need.

3) Avoid caffeine late in the day. Did you know that even a small amount of caffeine even 10-12 hours before bedtime can cause problems falling asleep! Try eliminating the tea, soda and even chocolate and see if sleep improves.

4) Listen to relaxing music. Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, such as listening to music, could be just the thing you need to signal your body it is time to sleep. So, dim the lights and throw some slow jazz or purchase a “relaxing sounds” CD to help slow your mind and body down for an evening of peaceful sleep.

5) Try mind- body techniques. After an action-packed day, your brain and body need to unwind and detox before sleep can occur (a.k.a. you need to chill!) Create a “ritual” for bedtime - take a bath, meditate, do some easy stretches or yoga. Try to do your “ritual” in the same way, in the same place, at the same time each night. The repetition will trigger your mind and body that it is time to relax and sleep.

6) Try a natural sleep aid. For many people, while the above tips and suggestions may help, it often isn’t enough. if you are one of those people who really have a hard time getting to sleep and staying asleep, you may want to try a natural sleep aid.

While over the counter sleep medications may help you fall asleep, they cannot be taken long-term and have risky side effects. A sleep aid that uses natural ingredients is a better approach to getting a solid night’s sleep.

Jesse Cannone
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/6-things-you-can-do-to-get-a-better-night-sleep-tonight-112397.html

The best medication over the counter sleep medication is Unisom. However, all medicated over the counter sleep medications carry loads of side effects. The best non medicated over the counter sleep medication is Nature Made Sleep, hands down it works better than other sleeping products, including those with medications in them and prescription sleep aids. Nature Made Sleep contains Melatonin which the body needs to get a good night’s sleep, along with L Theanine (the ingredient in turkey that makes you tired after Thanksgiving dinner), and other all natural ingredients that will help you get a good night’s sleep. It’s also the only over the counter sleep medication that is drug free, all natural, and non habit forming.

Have you ever experienced a sudden and excruciating pain as if your eyes are about to jump out of their sockets? If these pain episodes occur at the same time within days, or only during certain times of seasons, then most likely, you are suffering from cluster headaches.

A cluster headache is definitely one of the most painful form of headaches but there are many other types of headaches identified by medical experts, such as migraines and the caffeine and the cervicogenic headaches.

It should be noted that people suffering from cluster headaches should not worry that much because this type of headache typically is not arising from another underlying and probably more serious illness.

However, to be safe, a person suffering sudden and sharp headaches more often should still consult the doctor for proper education about this type of headache.

Cluster headache attacks

Cluster headaches were called such because the headache episodes occur frequently and at the same time within periods. For example, a person may experience terrible headache every 2 p.m. of the day for the whole summer. After summer, that person will not feel the headache anymore, until the following summer, when the cluster of headaches start to reappear.

Often, the area affected by the excruciating headache pain is also remain on that particular and same area of the head. It is rare that the center of the pain on cluster headaches transfer to another site or region of the head.

On the next cluster of headache attacks, it is weird and amazing to note that the pain would remain on that site where the pain is excruciatingly felt during the duration of the attacks.

Another striking uniqueness of the cluster headache is its timing and duration. On the average, a cluster headache attack lasts about 45 to 90 minutes. Experts note that attacks also more than often occur at certain times of the day, usually about 1 to 2 in the morning, or between 1 to 3 in the afternoon. Reported cases also occur at about 9 in the evening before the sleeping time of the patient.

Another distinct quality of this type of headache is that it occurs abruptly and also ends as abruptly. The pain is almost unbearable that patients normally scream or bang their heads during attacks. There were cases when patients attempted to commit suicide to free themselves from the suffering led by the painful episodes.

Symptoms of cluster headaches

Aside from those mentioned above, there are also other symptoms that can be indicative of the presence of cluster headache in a person.

A person suffering from the periodic disease experience swelling in the eye area, drooping of the eyelids and runny aor stuffy nostrils. The patient also exhibit flushed face and his eye pupils are reduced in size.

Restlessness is first and foremost noticeable at the onset of the cluster attacks. Usually, patients experience difficulty in sleeping and are easily annoyed. Thus, these people tend to prefer being alone often.

As symptoms exist, you should make sure to immediately seek expert and medical consultation to be sure. The doctor could prescribe pain relief drugs or recommend techniques about how to alleviate the painful attacks.

Not much can be expected over prevention, because up until now, the real cause behind cluster headaches is still yet to be identified. Currently, researchers believe that such headaches are hereditary, or runs in the bloodline in the family.

Treatment

Cluster headaches are treatable, but not exactly curable. There are cases when a patient suddenly stops having attacks. On the contrary, there are cases when the attacks get more severe and more often.

To treat cluster headache attacks, you should take the normal dosage of pain relievers. Injections and ointments could also be of good help, as well as occasional sessions with the physical therapist.

There are non-conventional and accidental treatments that have also been proven to prevent cluster headache attacks. Among such is the botox anti-wrinkling beauty injection, which was recently discovered to help prevent the onset of headache episodes for up to six months after administration.

Cluster headaches are really painful. No one wants them. But if you happen to have one, do not worry, because it is not life-threatening, only painful. Just stick to healthy lifestyle, stay away from alcoholic drinks and cigarettes, and you would certainly help yourself avoid the disease.

Lee Dobbins
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/what-are-cluster-headaches-and-how-can-they-be-avoided-80204.html

I have tried about everything. Right now I am trying Sominex. It says to take 1 at bedtime. The first night I tried one, no help. Two nights later I took 3, no help. Last night I took 5, no help. (I already know I shouldn’t have taken that many) I actually think they keep me awake. I was up until 7am!

I don’t have health insurance so I have not been to a doctor. I was hoping someone here would have a suggestion as it is my last resort.

Thanks in advance.

Try tylenol PM. Works good for me.

I’m 16 and I live in California. I’d rather not tell my parents I want to buy them because then they’ll get too worried or blame it on something else.

Sometimes.
I tried to buy cold medicine with sleeping aid in it,
and I wasn’t able to, when I was age 14.
I had no problem buying the non-PM version though.
Buy 5-HTP or melatonin, it doesn’t have a limit on it.

Diet can have a profound effect on physical and mental health, and certain foods have been shown to combat depression and even mental illness. Good nutrition also eases stress and improves sleeping patterns. First, check with your doctor, then try the â??depression fightingâ? diet for a month, and see if it improves your mood!

Top 10 foods for happiness and well-being:

1. Omega 3 fatty acids are compounds are found in tuna, salmon, walnuts, and canola oil. They can also be purchased in supplement form. Multiple clinical studies have shown Omega 3 fights depression. Omega 3 fats can even help combat more severe mental illnesses, such as bi-polar disorder. A landmark study by Harvard University showed that bi-polar patients receiving high doses of Omega 3 oils stayed in remission longer, and were able to combat depression better. A new study by the Mental Health Foundation shows that fish oils â??significantly improveâ? the behavior of children suffering from ADHD, or attention deficit disorder. And, since these oils are naturally occurring in foods, they are safe for most people to take.

2. Zinc is essential for metabolism and digestion. It plays an important role in immune system function, and helps fight weakness and fatigue. Zinc deficiencies often result in loss of appetite and irritability. Zinc-rich foods are: wheat germ, pumpkin seeds, whole grain wheat bran, and high protein foods.

3. Vitamin B-3 (niacin) is essential for energy conversion in the body. Even mild deficiencies can cause depression, irritability, canker sores, and indigestion. If you regularly get canker sores in your mouth and lips, it may be a sign of B-3 deficiency. Excessive alcohol consumption causes vitamin B-3 deficiencies. Natural sources of this vitamin are beets, pork, chicken, dried beans and oily fish (such as mackerel or salmon).

4. Water is absolutely essential for combating depression and fighting fatigue. Water helps improve mood, motor function, mind power, skin problems, and a host of other maladies. Always drink at least 40 ounces of water a day. If you drink soda or coffee, it is good to increase your water intake, since caffeine acts as a diuretic, pulling water from the body. The benefits are enormous, and the cost is minimal. Drink more water!

5. Vitamin E occurs naturally in wheat germ, nuts, seeds, and some fruits and vegetables. Vitamin E is a potent anti-oxidant and immune booster. It has been shown to strengthen red blood cells and fight viral infection. It is a good supplement for people with chronic fatigue and depression.

6. Calcium can help combat stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that calcium can help combat post-partum depression. Calcium-deficient people regularly complain of difficulty sleeping and cramps. Calcium has the added benefit of being a natural sleep-aid. It is present in milk, cheese, and most dairy products. Other non-dairy sources include broccoli, tofu and fortified orange juice.

7. Folic Acid is found in leafy greens, beans and peanuts, orange juice, wheat germ, and many fortified cereals. Researchers know that low levels of folic acid are directly linked to depression. A University of Toronto study showed that patients with higher levels of folic acid in their systems fought depression faster and more successfully than those without it.

8. Stevia is a natural sweetener made from a leafy green plant. Stevia has been used for centuries as a natural sweetener in Asia, and many diet sodas in Asia are made with Stevia. Although the sugar and artificial sweetener industry has fought steviaâ??s addition to foods in the United States, it is still freely available in powder and leafy form for consumers to purchase. Stevia is all-natural, non-caloric, and does not have the same side-effects as refined sugar and other artificial sweeteners.

9. Vitamin C is a natural immune-system booster. Depressed people often have suppressed immune systems, and vitamin C rich foods and supplements can help boost your natural immune response. People with vitamin C deficiencies often show signs of depression and stress. Vitamin C is readily available in all citrus fruits, and a variety of inexpensive supplements.

10. Iron deficiency causes fatigue, low energy, and anemia, especially in women. Always check with your doctor before taking an iron supplement. However, there are many natural sources of iron that are easily added to oneâ??s diet without any side-effects of a supplement. Good sources of iron include liver, beef, beans, peas, and nuts. It is easier for your body to assimilate iron from meat rather than vegetable sources. If you are a vegetarian, you can improve your iron assimilation by adding vitamin C to your diet.

Other Possible Causes of Fatigue

Food allergies can also cause a host of problems, including depression and weakness. Sometimes, these allergies are mild, and simply cause stomach upset or mood swings. A close friend of mine just recently discovered that chocolate (cacao) was the trigger for her PMS and horrible migraines. After 46 years, she is finally PMS and migraine-free after giving up chocolate completely. Common food allergies include chocolate, wheat, dairy, and soy.

Avoid Caffeine. One cup of tea or coffee per day is acceptable, but anything more than can cause problems with mood swings, depression, and fatigue. Black tea generally has less caffeine than coffee. If you would like to reduce your caffeine intake, consider switching to tea instead.

Reduce or eliminate your refined sugar intake. It may seem difficult at first, but train yourself to eat something else when you crave refined sugar. Delicious sweet strawberries, blueberries, or sliced oranges can ease your sweet tooth and help keep you on track. Avoid sugary foods and cereals, especially in the morning, when your blood sugar can spike dramatically. Instead, opt for a protein-rich breakfast, with eggs, milk, and sausage or lean meats and a piece of fruit, such as a banana. This type of breakfast helps prevent food cravings and mood swings later on in the day.

Hormone therapy and oral contraceptives can interfere with the absorption of B vitamins. Women that take an estrogen supplement may want to add a B supplement to their diet in order to combat this interference. Ask your doctor if a B supplement is okay.

Finally, if you are one of the many people that gulps down a cup of coffee in the morning and then realizes you are starving at noon, you are doing your body a great disservice every day. Even if you have to force yourself, eat three meals a day, and always start with a good, protein-rich breakfast. If your doctor approves, add some good vitamin supplements to your diet, and drink lots of water. Youâ??ll feel better almost immediately, and you may even lose cravings for unhealthy foods. Take the first step towards better health and a happier life!

Sources

â??Food Ingredients May be as Effective as Antidepressants: Researchers Discover â??Mood Foods’ Relieve Signs of Depression.â? Harvard University Online. May 2006.

Lark MD, Susan M. â??Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs for Chronic Fatigueâ? (Excerpted from The Menopause Self Help Book, Celestial Arts). 1990

â??Vitamin B3 (Niacin).â? University of Maryland Medical Center Alternative Medicine. April 2002.

Christie Pinheiro
http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/10-happy-foods-fight-depression-fatigue-naturally-136750.html

I am going to a concert with a bunch of friends and we’re all sharing a hotel room, I have SERIOUS and weird issues about being able to fall asleep with people in the room (even family members) the only person I can sleep with is my fiance, strange I know. I just lie awake and jump at every noise. If I’m in a room alone or alone with my fiance I can sleep perfectly fine and have no sleep issues.

Anyway, I do want to at least try to sleep, because the next day I’ll have a 4 hour drive, so what would work best? I have Vicodin or over the counter sleeping meds :/

vicodin should be fine. If not vicodin then try benedryl or tylenol PM. I take either 2 benedril or 3 tylenol PM almost every night and it works like a charm.

good luck babygirl!!

People with depression are simply not able to carry on their lives normally. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years. When these symptoms become very intense, they start interfering with oneâ??s ability to normally carry out even the daily chores. The person feels unable to do anything about it; other people need to help him out of this depressive situation. Appropriate treatment is required to help most people who suffer from depression.

Symptoms:

The symptoms that help identify depression include:

- Constant feelings of sadness, irritability.

- Feeling exhausted most of the time, despite lack of activity.

- Decreased interest social activities.

- Significant weight change.

- A change in sleeping pattern, such as difficulty sleeping or early morning awakening.

- Lack of confidence.

- Spends a lot of time thinking about what has gone wrong or what will go wrong.

- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

- Physical pain, which has no apparent physical

- Thoughts of suicide or death

If you or somebody close to you is experiencing any of these symptoms, you must consult a doctor right away.

What causes depression?

Causes of depression are still unknown, Depression has no single cause - it may result from a combination of things. However, it can be triggered by:

- Trauma and stress - financial problems, the breakup of a relationship, or the death of a near one can bring in depression.

- Loss of social support such as the loss of a job

- Poverty.

- Physical conditions - chronic illness such as Parkinsonâ??s, diabetes, HIV or cancer

- Side-effects of medications.

- Hormonal changes that affect mood, such as the onset or end of menstruation, menopause.

- Alcohol abuse

- Hereditary - depression may run in families, and parents may pass on the defective genes.

- People with low self-esteem, or who are pessimistic.

- Psychological disorders such as anorexia.

- Some scientists suggest that overexposure to electro-magnetic smog from computer terminals and kitchen appliances, especially the microwave oven, upset the balance of the body’s own electromagnetic field and leads to depression.

- Being physically or sexually abused.

- Family conflicts, especially between parents.

Depression in women -

Women are prone to depression twice as compared to men. Many hormonal factors may contribute to the increased rate of depression in women particularly factors as menstrual cycle, pregnancy, miscarriage, premenstrual syndrome and menopause. Many women also face additional tensions such as responsibilities both at work and home, single parenthood, and caring for children.

How to diagnose depression:

A good diagnostic assessment will include a complete history of the patientâ??s symptoms, i.e., when it started, how severe they are, are they recurrent, whether any previous treatment was given, if yes, then what treatment. The doctor should enquire about physical abuse or alcohol and drug use. Further, a history should include information about whether other family members have had a depressive illness.

Can depression be treated?

â?¢ Yes, depression can be treated.

â?¢ About 80% of people treated for depression get better.

â?¢ Both medication and therapy can effectively treat depression.

What happens, if depression is left untreated?

Depression if untreated, can affect:

- Social behaviour, along with normal day to day functioning

- Self-esteem and confidence

- Can lead to drug abuse, disruptive behaviours, violence and aggression,

- Even lead to suicide

Depression is a serious problem that demands a serious medical approach. However, you need to first recognize what is causing it.

How to treat depression?

Most people with depression never seek medical help, even though the majority will respond to treatment. Treating depression is especially important because it affects you, your family, and your work. Depression is a curable illness.

Treatment includes a combination of professional counseling, drug therapy, and family support.

Love, appreciation and normal communication are some of the most important things you should provide to help the person cope with depression. Do not be critical of the person at any stage.

A change in normal lifestyle habits can help reduce symptoms of depression. Encourage the person to:

â?¢ Go in for some light exercise regularly, such as swimming, walking.

â?¢ Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs.

â?¢ Get a good and refreshing sleep

â?¢ Eat a balanced diet.

â?¢ Be optimistic. Positive thinking is very important in recovering from depression.

Change will not come overnight - but with the right treatment, you can keep depression from overshadowing your life. Early treatment of depression will bring about the best results. Think positive, recovery will happen, but gradually.

Are anti-depressants helpful?

Many psychiatric drugs have not been satisfactorily tested in patients, so we do not know for sure the risks or the benefits of these medications.

The thumb rule is caution while giving antidepressants - They should be neither a first nor a last resort. If given, anti-depressants should not be stopped abruptly, because it may lead to a withdrawal syndrome that includes dizziness, nausea, seizures and anxiety.

Side effects of anti-depressants:

The side effects vary depending on the drug, but can include:

â?¢ Insomnia

â?¢ Sleepiness

â?¢ Increased anxiety

â?¢ Nausea or vomiting

â?¢ Headaches

â?¢ Dizziness

â?¢ Weight gain or loss

Beware! Anti depressants can trigger off suicidal behaviour!

Some helpful home remedies for depression â??

Home remedy for depression is the best solution as it is free from any side effects.

- Ayurveda recommends yoga, massage and meditation, which increases the energy of life. Yoga exercises help to increase the circulation of oxygen in the system and helps keeps the mind relaxed. Deep breathing exercises or â??pranayamaâ? help the body and mind to relax.

- Try to distract your mind. Listen to your favourite music, do the things you are fond of, eat something good, go out with friends â?? bring a change in your daily routine, and it will help cope with depression.

- Aromatherapy helps the body relax and revive the nervous system. Inhalation of some herbal oils like rose, jasmine, lime, and grapefruit are considered a natural remedy for depression.

- Cashew nuts are extremely beneficial in treating depression, as it is a rich source of vitamin B. It ensures body activeness and energy levels.

- Take daily walks. Fresh air and deep breathing exercises are both good in aiding relaxation.

Avoid black tea, kava tea, tobacco and alcohol. Eat more wheat germ, which is an energizer. Pears, apples, and nuts assist the nervous system in functioning properly.

TALK TO SOMEONE IF YOU FEEL YOU ARE DEPRESSEDâ?¦IT MAY JUST WORK!!

Candy Willims
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/depression-home-remedies-for-depression-121032.html