Frequently asked questions
What are the Symptoms of Insomnia?
Common symptoms of insomnia include:
- Difficulty falling asleep after going to bed.
- Frequent awakenings during the night, often with difficulty returning to sleep.
- Waking up too early in the morning.
- Feeling unrefreshed upon waking.
- Daytime fatigue, irritability, mood disturbances, and impaired concentration or memory.
What is the Duration of Insomnia?
Insomnia can be categorized as acute or chronic:
- Acute insomnia is typically short-term, lasting from a few nights to several weeks. It is often linked to specific stressors, life events, or medical conditions.
- Chronic insomnia persists for at least three nights a week for three months or more. It is usually a more complex condition with various underlying causes.
What are the Causes of Insomnia?
Insomnia can have various underlying causes, including:
- Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma.
- Medical conditions such as chronic pain, asthma, gastrointestinal problems, or hormonal imbalances.
- Medications that disrupt sleep patterns.
- Poor sleep habits and irregular sleep schedules.
- Environmental factors like excessive noise, light, or an uncomfortable sleep environment.
- Predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating causes can lead to chronic insomnia.
How is Insomnia Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnosis often involves a thorough medical history, sleep diary, and, in some cases, sleep studies (polysomnography).
Treatment strategies aim to address the underlying causes and may include improving sleep hygiene, cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, or medication for short-term relief.
Tailoring treatment to the specific type and causes of insomnia is crucial for effective management.
Insomnia is a significant health concern, as it can impact sleep quality, overall physical and mental well-being. Seeking professional evaluation and treatment is essential for individuals experiencing persistent insomnia symptoms.