Do I Have Insomnia?
Sleeplessness is a problem that affects people of all ages, and it can develop suddenly or over time.
Sleep issues or other medical problems may be the cause of insomnia, so it’s essential to consult a physician for assistance with the condition.
Insomnia doesn’t have to be a permanent condition; it can be improved with small changes in your habits and sleep environment. Start by decreasing caffeine consumption and setting regular bedtime and waketime schedules.
You may wish to discuss sleep therapy (also known as cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT-I) with your doctor. This type of therapy has been proven more successful over time than medications and is often prescribed when dealing with chronic insomnia.
Sleep is just as essential for your wellbeing as eating healthily and exercising regularly. But if you’re under a lot of stress or have certain medical conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease, or cancer – problems sleeping could arise.
Before your doctor appointment, it’s wise to keep a sleep diary for at least one week. This way, the doctor can ask about your sleep habits and any symptoms you might be experiencing. You can also record when you wake up, how much sleep usually occurs, as well as any medications taken.
Your doctor may order tests to identify the source of your sleeping problems. These could include sleep studies and polysomnography, which measures brain waves while you’re asleep or awake.