Insomnia is a sleep condition that causes difficulty sleeping or staying asleep, and it might be short-term (acute) or persistent (chronic). If insomnia interferes with your ability to function throughout the day or lasts more than a few weeks, you should consult your Bridgewater, NJ Telehealth doctor. They can assist you in determining the source of your insomnia and the most effective treatment approach.
Understanding insomnia
Insomnia is a common sleep problem in which you have difficulty falling or staying asleep. It causes daytime tiredness and a lack of refreshed sensation when you wake up. Approximately half of all individuals suffer from occasional sleeplessness, and one out of every ten persons has persistent insomnia.
Insomnia may affect everyone, although it is far more frequent in women and older people. It might endure for a few days, weeks, or months. Also, insomnia is commonly caused by stress, menopause, and various physical and mental health disorders.
How much sleep do most individuals need?
Most adults require about seven to nine hours of sleep per night; however, the amount needed to operate at your optimum varies among individuals. Also, the quality of your rest matters as much as your quantity. Tossing and turning and repeatedly awakening is as harmful to your health as not being able to fall asleep.
Common types of insomnia
There are two common types of insomnia:
1. Primary insomnia: This means your sleep issues are not connected to any other health condition or problem.
2. Secondary insomnia: This means you have difficulty sleeping due to a health disorder (like depression, asthma, arthritis, heartburn, or cancer), pain, medication, or substance usage (such as alcohol).
Various risk factors for insomnia
Insomnia happens more often in women and persons assigned female at birth than in males and individuals assigned male at birth. Sleep can be commonly disrupted by pregnancy and hormonal changes. Also, sleep can be affected by other hormonal changes, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or menopause.
Additionally, insomnia becomes more prevalent over the age of 60. Older people may be less likely to sleep comfortably due to bodily changes associated with age and medical illnesses or drugs that disrupt sleep.
How to treat insomnia
Insomnia treatment differs depending on your cause. You can treat acute insomnia at home with an over-the-counter sleep aid or stress management. Conversely, chronic insomnia therapy involves addressing any underlying problem causing your sleeplessness. Cognitive behavioral treatment for insomnia (CBT-I), which is more beneficial than medicine, may be recommended by your doctor.
Can melatonin help you sleep?
Your body generates a hormone known as melatonin that encourages sleep. Some individuals use melatonin supplements as a sleep aid; however, there is no proof that these supplements function. Since the FDA doesn’t regulate supplements the same as drugs, you should consult your healthcare professional before taking one.
If you have insomnia, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare expert for help. They may provide tips for addressing problems that interfere with your sleep. Those with insomnia rest better after altering their diet, lifestyle, and nighttime habits. Medication or cognitive behavioral therapy may also be beneficial. Call Respacare or book your meeting online to determine which insomnia therapies are ideal for you.