What is Insomnia?
The technical definition of insomnia is difficulty falling or staying asleep, even when the person has the opportunity to sleep. Insomnia can also include waking up too early in the morning. Acute insomnia is short-term and may occur because of life stresses; it typically resolves on its own. Chronic insomnia occurs when disrupted sleep occurs at least three nights a week and the problem lasts at least three months.
What Causes Insomnia?
Insomnia can have many possible causes. Something as simple as your lifestyle (too much caffeine, alcohol, or lack of exercise) or as complicated as a problem with neurotransmitters in the brain can result in insomnia. Anxiety and depression may trigger insomnia. Sleep apnea, sinus allergies, chronic pain, restless leg syndrome, and medication side effects may all cause insomnia.
Is Insomnia Dangerous to Your Health?
Lack of sleep can cause all sorts of problems if insomnia becomes chronic. One of the first considerations is daytime sleepiness and the risk of an accident while driving or operating machinery. People with insomnia are at higher risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and stroke. Insomnia also increases the risk of obesity, and obesity increases the risk of diabetes.
Can Insomnia Be Cured?
As with many conditions, the cure depends on the cause. The first step is an accurate diagnosis, which typically begins with a physical examination and extensive health history. If these reveal that the most likely problem is a stressful lifestyle, too much caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol (all of which disrupt sleep), the cure is primarily a matter of changing behavior. Sleep apnea can be treated, as can sinus problems. Depression and anxiety may also respond to treatment. Diet may play a role in insomnia; undiagnosed food allergy and intolerance can affect many body systems or cause gastric reflux that keeps the patient awake. In most cases, treatment begins with the basics: a healthy diet, daily exercise, and stress relief.
