Insomnia

Definition

Inability to fall asleep, inability to stay asleep

Types of Insomnia

• Transient insomnia - inability to sleep well over a period of a few nights. Usually brought on by excitement or stress.
• Short-term insomnia - Periods of ongoing stress at work or at home can result in two to three weeks of poor sleep. When stress subsides, sleep usually returns to normal.
• Chronic Insomnia - Poor sleep every night or most nights.

Causes of Insomnia

• Some people seem more likely than others to experience insomnia during times of stress
• Persistent stress such as a troubled marriage or chronic illness
• Psychiatric problems - Awakenings earlier than desired is one of the most common symptoms of depression
• Lifestyle
  • Use of caffeine near bedtime, even if it doesn't interfere with onset of sleep, can trigger awakenings later in the night. Nicotine is also a stimulant and smokers may take longer to fall asleep
  • Although alcohol can induce sleep, is likely to make sleep more fragile throughout the sleep
  • Erratic Hours can disrupt the bodies ability to sleep
  • Inactive behavior during the day may make it difficult to fall asleep at night
  • Learned Insomnia: People who sleep poorly during times of stress are likely to worry about not being able to function effectively during the day.
  • Misuse or overuse of sleeping pills: If used every night, sleeping pills stop being effective after a few weeks. When their use is stopped suddenly, sleep can be temporarily worse.
• Environmental Factors
  • Noise can disturb sleep even if it doesn't cause the sleeper to wake up. Such as passing traffic, airplanes or television
  • Light comes through the eyelids even when the eyes are closed.
• Physical Illness
  • Breathing disorders: Sleep apnea can cause the sleeper to have frequent awakenings
  • Periodic Limb Movements of Sleep: Can cause brief awakenings during the night

How to Get Diagnosed

If you suffer from insomnia talk with your physician about getting diagnosed.  If you do not have a physician you can be seen in our sleep clinic or call Genesis On-call at 563-421-2000.

Evaluation

• Your physician will start by getting a complete medical history
• The physician will want to speak with your bed partner or other members of your household about your sleeping and daytime behavior
• To diagnose insomnia and determine the underlying cause your physician may refer you for a sleep study. You may also be referred for an MSLT if your doctor needs to assess daytime alertness

Treatment

• If another disorder is causing the insomnia that disorder will be treated
• Follow sleep hygiene rules to help stabilize your sleep/wake schedule
• Your doctor may refer you into the insomnia program which utilizes relaxation and behavioral techniques to treat your insomnia
• Medications may be utilized