For many busy Americans, sleep is not a luxury they can afford to lose. Insomnia is a crippling sleep disorder that hinders a persons ability to fall and/or remain asleep. Trouble falling asleep, waking up repeatedly at night, and excessive tiredness during the day are all symptoms of insomnia. Understanding the types and causes of insomnia is the first step in treating it and recovering the path to a normal, healthy sleep pattern.
Insomnia is divided into two types: Primary insomnia, whose sleep disruption is unrelated to a pre-existing health issue and secondary insomnia, whose sleep disturbance is the result of an underlying health condition, pain, medication, or substance (such as alcohol).
Both types of insomnia can be characterized as either acute or chronic depending on their duration and frequency. Insomnia lasting one night to a few weeks is considered acute, while insomnia symptoms that occur at least three nights a week for a month or more are generally diagnosed as chronic.
Our bodies tune into our emotional and physical well-being which has a profound effect on our sleep patterns. Causes of acute insomnia include illness, emotional or physical distress, and excessive stress and/or stressful life events, such as divorce, death, and other significant changes. Light or sound sensitivity and temperature can also play a role in causing insomnia, as well as disturbances in your normal sleep schedule. Insomnia can also be a side effect of certain medications, such as those related to depression, blood pressure, and asthma. The causes of chronic insomnia are related to underlying conditions such as depression/anxiety, chronic stress, and pain.
If you are experiencing symptoms of insomnia, consult your physician. Some cases of insomnia go away on their own, while others can be treated by making lifestyle changes or treating an underlying health condition. Work with your physician to find the right treatment option for you.
