Causes and Symptoms of Insomnia
About one in every three adults experiences episodes of insomnia that last a few days. But approximately 1 out of every 10 experience ongoing difficulty sleeping, known as chronic insomnia.
Insomnia is a disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or waking up early in the morning with difficulty returning to sleep. It can affect people of all ages and genders equally.
Sleeping issues can have a major impact on your health and quality of life. Therefore, if you suffer from insomnia, it’s essential to seek assistance right away.
Medical, psychiatric and lifestyle factors can all lead to insomnia. These include changes in your routine, medications taken and alcohol consumed.
Physical health conditions, such as minor injuries or chronic illness, can contribute to insomnia. They alter your circadian rhythm (natural sleep/wake clock), making it harder to fall asleep or wake up in the morning.
Mental health issues like anxiety and depression can also contribute to insomnia, and these could stem from anything from work- or school-related stress to a relationship issue.
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, keeping your room dark and cool, and following a relaxing routine before bed can all help you fall asleep more easily. Additionally, abstaining from caffeine and alcohol before bedtime may also prove beneficial.
The most effective treatment for insomnia is to address the underlying cause. If you have a medical condition like high blood pressure or depression, treating these can improve your sleep quality. Likewise, if a medication you’re taking has caused insomnia as a side effect, your doctor can adjust its dose or prescribe another drug to address this issue.
