Insomnia
WHAT IS INSOMNIA?
Quite simply put, insomnia is the inability to fall asleep and/or maintain sleep. Most of us have experienced what is called acute insomnia at some point in our lives. Acute insomnia lasts no longer than a month at a time and is generally caused by factors such as diet, stress, jet lag or sleep environment.
Symptoms lasting greater than a month are considered chronic insomnia. True chronic insomnia is rare and is usually due to underlying factors such as, an undiagnosed sleep disorder, psychological conditions and medication or substances.
WHAT IF INSOMNIA GOES UNTREATED?
Untreated insomnia can lead to many occurrences such as; depression, frequent accidents due to the inability to concentrate, drowsy driving and illness.
HOW IS INSOMNIA TREATED?
Treatments can include prescription medications as well as proper bedtime hygiene. What is proper bedtime hygiene you ask? Proper bedtime hygiene includes:
- Establishing and maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule. This means getting out of bed at the same time everyday and going to bed at the same time every night.
- Use your bed only for sleep and sex.
- Avoiding caffeine at least 4 hours prior to bedtime.
- Avoiding nicotine at least 1 hour prior to bedtime.
- Avoid eating or drinking too much before bedtime.
- Avoid napping too late in the day.
- Create a sleep friendly environment that is cool, dark and quiet.
For more information and tips on sleep hygiene contact your physician or a sleep specialist today.