What Are the Causes and Effects of Insomnia?

Insomnia is a common condition that affects over ten percent of adults. It is caused by a wide range of factors. If you are experiencing insomnia, it is important to seek help. Often, the cause of the sleep problem is an underlying health condition or behavioral change.

Some of the most common causes of insomnia are stress, depression, and anxiety. Medications such as antidepressants, pain relievers, and stimulants can also interfere with sleep.

Medical problems, such as diabetes, cancer, or arthritis, can also lead to poor sleep. During treatment, you may need to take sleeping pills. You should check with your doctor about these medications before taking them.

A medical exam and blood tests can rule out conditions that might be causing insomnia. Your physician may ask you to keep a sleep diary. They will also inquire about your medical history and your sleep habits.

When your health care provider believes that you have insomnia, he or she will begin to investigate the cause of the problem. The most common symptoms of insomnia are daytime sleepiness, difficulty getting to sleep, and trouble staying asleep through the night.

Insomnia is usually treated with behavioral interventions, such as stimulus control therapy and sleep restriction therapy. These techniques can be used for both short- and long-term relief.

If you have chronic insomnia, you may need to use medications for a few weeks. Short-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and lorazepam, are often prescribed. Longer-acting medications are less likely to cause rebound insomnia.