Condition

What is it?

People with insomnia, or sleeplessness, can have many types of difficulties sleeping including trouble falling asleep, trouble staying asleep, restless sleep, or waking multiple times per night. Insomnia affects as many as half of all patients each year and, for many, these symptoms persist for weeks at a time and often result in an increase in injuries due to accidents, lack of focus, mood swings, and many physical symptoms.

Restful sleep is absolutely essential to optimal health. But, often both over the counter and prescription sleep medications (only recommended for intermittent use) leave patients feeling groggy, loopy, uncoordinated, nauseous, and more prone to accidents.

What causes it?

Insomnia can be associated with other diagnoses including hypothyroidism, chronic pain, anxiety, menopause, heartburn, and sleep apnea. In addition, medications and substances such as caffeine and nicotine often cause an increased risk for sleep challenges. It is important to make a diagnosis by looking into someone’s sleep habits as well as an in depth exam including lab testing to determine the underlying cause.