Sleep Soundly Without Insomnia

Are you experiencing sleepless nights? Insomnia may be the root cause, with approximately one in four Americans developing insomnia each year. Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Symptoms of insomnia include difficulty falling asleep, waking up during the night or too early, not feeling well-rested after, daytime fatigue or sleepiness, depression, anxiety, difficulty paying attention, focusing on tasks or remembering, increased errors and ongoing worries about sleep.

Insomnia can be short-term (acute insomnia) or long-term (chronic insomnia). According to BSA Sleep Disorders Manager, Jeanine Pruitt, acute insomnia is often triggered by a substantial life event and chronic insomnia is often due to medical conditions.

“Acute insomnia can last for days or weeks, and can result from significant life stress such as having a baby, the loss or change of a job, death of a loved one, divorce and moving,” Pruitt explained. “Chronic insomnia can derive from certain medical conditions, medicines, sleep disorders and substances. It can last for a month or longer depending on the individual’s situation.”

Insomnia is common and can be treated. BSA Sleep Disorders Center includes diagnostics and a treatment program to increase the quality of your sleep.

“The diagnosis of insomnia and search for its cause may include a physical exam, review of sleep habits, and a sleep study,” Pruitt shared. “Changing your sleep habits and addressing any issues that may be associated with insomnia, such as stress, medical conditions or medications can restore a restful night of sleep for many people.”

If you are experiencing sleepless nights, talk to your physician about participating in a sleep study at BSA Sleep Disorders Center. Click here to find a provider.