One of the most debilitating symptoms when it comes to Graves’ disease is the inability of those diagnosed to get adequate sleep, both in duration, quality and quantity. The reason behind this particular symptom is that the overall metabolism of the body has already increased dramatically due to excess thyroid hormone in the body. This leads to a subjective feeling of increased energy and physical drive. The person with Graves’ disease often feels that they can achieve many things, regularly starting many projects at once and working until they are completely exhausted. Under normal conditions, this should lead to a deep, rejuvenating sleep and the individual can expect to wake up refreshed and rested. That’s not the case for people with Graves’ disease because they can’t just “flip” the switch as easily, they have trouble initiating sleep, maintaining sleep, or going through the 5 stages of the sleep cycle.
Clinical picture of sleep problems associated with Graves’ Disease and Hyperthyroidism
Some of the main complaints are unrefreshing sleep, waking up multiple times a night, and trouble falling back to sleep. Some people regularly sleep less than 2-3 hours a night and wake up even more tired. The sleep disturbance and accompanying daytime exhaustion cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of life. As a result of these repeated patterns of disturbed sleep, people can feel irritable, fatigued, and exhausted during the day, often unable to concentrate on work, driving, or social activities. They have decreased motivation to perform different tasks, reduced performance at work or school, may experience daytime sleepiness. People diagnosed with it may also have problems with attention, concentration, or memory during the day. Patients with Graves’ disease find themselves in a vicious cycle: they can’t get enough sleep, they are exhausted and overwhelmed. However, there are some methods and sleep aids that can break that cycle.
General recommendations for treating insomnia due to Graves’ disease
First of all, patients must continue with the treatment medication prescribed by their doctors in relation to Graves’ disease or hyperthyroidism. Secondly, it is recommended to maintain a stable sleep-wake cycle, that is, go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning, regardless of whether it is the weekend or not. It is advisable to avoid alcohol before going to bed, because alcohol is often associated with sleep problems. Properly ventilated rooms and premises are also important to provide a deep and restful sleep. Watching television and working on computers an hour before bedtime can also interfere with the quality and quantity of sleep.
sleep aids
There are some over-the-counter sleep aids and natural remedies that can help initiate and maintain good sleep. The following aids can be found at any health food store:
1. Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland, which is connected to and controls sleep cycles. The production of this hormone usually increases at night and decreases in the morning, but this process can be affected by abnormal circumstances: night shifts, jet lag, seasonal affective disorder, etc. Take as prescribed on the label.
2. Chamomile tea: has a calming effect on the nervous system and has no contraindications.
3. Lemon balm tea: has a relaxing effect and is used to treat anxiety and stress. It is also known to reduce the overproduction of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
4. Lavender – Use as an aromatherapy oil or mist.
5. Valerian Roots – This is another powerful herb for promoting a good night’s sleep. Avoid taking during the day as it has strong sedative properties and can act as a tranquilizer.
6. Heat the milk with a tablespoon of honey. Take at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
7. Magnesium- Calms the nerves and relaxes the muscles, thus helping the body prepare for sleep. Magnesium depletion is related to stress; consequently, taken as a supplement it has a positive effect on sleep.
Additional sleep techniques and recommendations for sleep problems associated with Graves’ disease
1. Doctors also often recommend deep breathing and relaxation techniques to promote good sleep.
2. Use bubble baths with soft music and candles to relax before going to sleep.
3. Massage therapy also helps the body to relax physically and mentally.
4. Meditation: Doctors find this free and easy method to calm “moving minds and thoughts,” to aid awareness, relaxation, and concentration.
5. Walking and physical exercise: Both can help establish a healthy sleep pattern, so practice regularly.
