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INSOMNIA

Almost everyone at some time in their life will experience a sleeping disorder. The most common being insomnia, which is defined as poor quality or insufficient sleep. This may be because a person is unable to fall asleep, or wakes up many times throughout the night, or wakes up too early in the morning.

Every person differs in the amount of sleep they need to function properly while awake. This means that one person may only sleep for 5 hours a night and not experience insomnia, while another person sleeping the same amount will. This can make a person irritable, tired, and have a lack of energy or make it difficult to concentrate. People often think that as they get older they need less or more sleep; this is false. The amount of sleep a person needs does not change as they age.

There are three forms of insomnia. The first two we will discuss are mild to moderate in comparison to the third. These forms are short term and intermittent (comes and goes). The causes for these forms are usually easily determined. A few examples would be side effects from a medication, stress, jet lag, or recent changes in lifestyle. These forms usually do not require treatment because the persons body will get them back on a regular sleeping schedule. If a person is having problems during the day due to one of these, consulting a physician is recommended to find out what can be done.

The other classification of insomnia is chronic. This means that the person experiences trouble sleeping on most nights, and lasts for more than a month. There are also many causes for chronic insomnia, the most common being depression. Other causes could be arthritis, asthma, sleep apnea, heart failure, stress, or inappropriate use of alcohol or drugs. There are many other causes for chronic insomnia, resulting from either mental or physical issues a person may be experiencing. Treatment for chronic insomnia can be a difficult process because the cause must be determined. For example if the case is depression, treatment for that is needed before the insomnia can be approached. Forms of treatment should be discussed with a physician, before trying anything such as over the counter sleeping pills.

There are a few suggestions that can promote healthy sleeping habits for persons with insomnia. A regular sleeping pattern is important; this means going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday. Try to avoid naps during the day, and avoid caffeine, nicotine, alcohol or other stimulants close to bedtime. Sometimes even just a light snack, or a relaxing bath will help promote sleep. For more information concerning insomnia or other sleeping disorders please contact your physician or the National Center of Sleep Disorders Research.

The information contained in the topic is based on current medical literature and on physician review. However, because an accurate medical diagnosis depends on many factors, including each patient's unique medical history, the use of this information is not intended to replace the advice of your provider.

Sources

Facts about insomnia
National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, And Blood Institute.
www.nhlbi.nih.gov

Reviewed and approved for publication by: Medical Director, David A. McAnulty,M.D.

Written by: Shannon Elliott

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