What is it?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder affecting an estimated 35% of adults. The disorder causes lack of sleep or poor quality sleep which interrupts the ability to function normally during waking hours. Females, individuals over 60 years of age, and those with a history of depression are more likely than others to experience insomnia. If other conditions, such as stress, anxiety, medical conditions, or the use of medications exists in unison with the above, insomnia is more likely.

What are the symptoms?

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Waking up frequently with difficulty returning to sleep
• Waking prematurely
• Unrefreshing sleep

What causes it?

Insomnia can occur on a transient  basis (short term), intermittent  (on and off), or chronic  (constant). Transient insomnia occurs most often due to temporary stress, environmental noise, extreme temperatures, changes in surrounding environment, jet lag, and side effects from medication. Chronic insomnia is generally resultant from combined physical or mental factors. Depression, arthritis, kidney disease, heart failure, asthma, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, restless legs syndrome, Parkinson's Disease, and hyperthyroidism are common causes. Behavioral factors such as misuse of caffeine, alcohol, or other substances; disrupted sleep/wake patterns, excessive napping, chronic stress, and worry of expected sleep problems can also trigger the sleep disorder.

What are the treatment options?
Transient and intermittent insomnia may not require treatment since the episodes are short-lived.

Chronic insomnia treatment consists of...

• Diagnosis and treatment of any possible underlying medical or psychological problems
• Identifying behaviors that may worsen the insomnia and discontinue or reduce the behavior
• Possibly prescribing sleep medication under the close supervision of a physician
• Behavioral therapy, such as relaxation therapy, sleep restriction, and reconditioning.