The most common sleep complaint is insomnia. Whether you suffer from it or your friend does, you may have heard about insomnia before. Insomnia occurs when you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or do not feel refreshed in the morning. The causes, symptoms and severity of insomnia vary from person to person, but might include:

  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Difficulty staying asleep through the night
  • Waking up too early in the morning
  • Poor quality of sleep
  • Feeling tired in the morning

If you suffer from insomnia it can impact nearly every aspect of your life, which is why it is important to identify and treat this condition when it arises. Let’s take a closer look at insomnia.

What are the Causes and Symptoms?

While symptoms and causes of insomnia vary from each individual, some might include:

  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Frustration or worry about your sleep
  • Problems with attention, concentration or memory
  • Extreme mood changes or irritability
  • Lack of energy or motivation
  • Poor performance at school or work
  • Tension, headaches or stomach aches

Often, insomnia is associated with something else. However, it is rare that insomnia is not caused or worsened by other factors, including:

  • Stress
  • Other sleep disorders
  • Medical conditions
  • Mental disorders
  • Medication or substance use or abuse
  • Environmental factors
  • Habits or lifestyles

What are Some Treatment Options?

Treatment for insomnia will vary depending on its underlying cause. If you suffer from chronic insomnia, a board certified sleep medicine physician may recommend any combination of the following treatments:

  • Sleep hygiene
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia
  • Medications

While insomnia is common, most people can find a treatment that works for them. Contact Craniofacial Pain & Dental Sleep Center of Georgia for more information on insomnia and what your next step for treatment might be.