insomnia, symptoms and treatment:
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insomnia, symptoms and treatment: |
Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep. People with insomnia often have trouble initiating or maintaining sleep, despite having the opportunity and desire to sleep. This can result in daytime fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and impaired performance in daily activities.
Insomnia can be categorized into two types: acute and chronic. Acute insomnia is typically short-term and often occurs in response to stressful events or changes in sleep environment. It usually resolves on its own once the underlying cause is addressed. Chronic insomnia, on the other hand, lasts for a month or longer and may be caused by factors such as underlying medical conditions, psychiatric disorders, medications, substance abuse, or poor sleep habits.
There are various potential causes of insomnia, including:
Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and other emotional or mental health disorders can disrupt sleep patterns.
Medical conditions: Chronic pain, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal disorders, hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid disorders), and neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson's disease) can contribute to insomnia.
Medications: Certain medications like antidepressants, corticosteroids, and drugs used for asthma or high blood pressure can interfere with sleep.
Substance use: Consuming substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, or certain drugs can disrupt sleep.
Sleep disorders: Insomnia can be a symptom of other sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, or narcolepsy.
insomnia, symptoms and treatment:
Treatment for insomnia depends on its underlying cause. It may involve addressing any medical or psychiatric conditions, making lifestyle changes to promote healthy sleep habits (e.g., establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment), and practicing relaxation techniques. In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications for short-term use to help regulate sleep patterns. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a widely recommended non-drug treatment that focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors related to sleep. If you're experiencing symptoms of insomnia, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.