It’s 3 a.m. and you’re still tossing and turning. Your bedroom is cool and comfortable, your television and computer have been turned off for hours, and you haven’t had any caffeine since lunchtime. Sleep seems unattainable. If you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night, you may be suffering from insomnia. Recognizing the symptoms of this sleep disorder is one of the first steps to take toward reclaiming your shuteye.
Symptoms
Everyone has an occasional sleepless night, but if it takes you longer than 30 minutes to fall asleep, or if you sleep fewer than six hours for three or more consecutive nights, insomnia may be your problem. Insomnia can affect your health, your job, and your ability to function during the day. If you are experiencing three or more of the following symptoms, you should make an appointment with your doctor for an evaluation.
- Waking up in the middle of the night
- Difficulty returning back to sleep
- Lying awake for longer than 30 minutes before falling asleep
- Waking up too early
- Never feeling rested
- Falling asleep during the day
- Extreme irritability
- Feeling stressed or anxious
- Inability to focus
- Concentration and memory problems
- Making errors or having accidents
- Physical symptoms such as tension headaches or digestive complaints
Stress
There are different types of insomnia. Temporary or acute insomnia can occur during times of internal conflict caused by things such as divorce, death of a loved one, financial problems, job loss, or illness in the family. Chronic insomnia is an ongoing sleep disorder that may require evaluation at a sleep center for proper diagnosis and treatment. Behavioral therapy can also be helpful in the treatment of chronic insomnia.
Considerations
Insomnia can make you feel like you are losing control of your life. The inability to sleep can lead to health problems and ongoing worries about lack of sleep. The frustrating cycle continues and bedtime becomes a source of anxiety. If you are falling asleep at your desk, losing patience with your spouse or kids, and feeling overwhelmed by the simple tasks of daily life, it’s time to seek the help and recommendation of your doctor. He or she can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether your insomnia is the result of a physical or medical problem. If not, your doctor can suggest behavioral changes that might help promote deep, restful sleep.
Nothing feels better after a long day than curling up in your cozy bed, closing your eyes, and drifting off to dreamland. Insomnia doesn’t have to overcome your life. Pay attention to your sleep habits, and seek help if needed.
