Sleep Disorders: Insomnia
Insomnia is not a disease, instead it is a label. It simply
means that sleep is poor and not adequate without saying why.
The cause of insomnia is usually more complex than the symptoms.
The causes can consist of mental or physical disorders such as:
stress, depression, pain, sleep apnea or restless legs. Behavioral
disorders such as caffeine or alcohol intake, taking excessive naps
in the afternoon or evening can also cause insomnia.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking up frequently throughout the night
- Difficulty returning to sleep
- Waking up too early in the morning
Treatment
It is necessary to try and determine the main cause of the sleep
loss in order to best treat it. Usually behavioral treatments
are the most effective approach. These treatments can include
stimulus control therapy, cognitive therapy, sleep restriction,
or relaxation techniques.
For more information on insomnia, please visit the American insomnia
association at www.americaninsomniaassociation.org.
Epworth
Sleepiness Scale
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