4 Questions to Ask About Insomnia

– Transient Insomnia — Transient insomnia is defined as the inability to sleep from anywhere between a few days to a week. It can be caused by:

– Worry about a future event
– Stress
– A persistent issue, such as personal problems
– Illness, especially if it causes congestion (stuffy nose), or physical pain
– Jet lag, especially from long flights
– Sleeping in a new environment, such as when traveling
– Excitement about a holiday or event
– Sleeping at different times than usual

The effects of this type of insomnia are transient (short-lasting); therefore, people should be able to return to their normal sleep once they have passed.

– Acute or Short Term Insomnia — The second type of insomnia is much like the first, however, it can last for a lot longer several weeks to over a month. This can be caused by:

– A longer illness with symptoms that persist through the night (coughing, congestion, frequent need to use the washroom)
– Stressed or upset about a recurring problem
– Bereavement after a loved one passes away

While the causes of acute insomnia are typically more severe and longer-lasting than the ones associated with transient insomnia, they are still fairly short-term and should not cause issues for longer than one month.

– Chronic Insomnia — Chronic insomnia is defined as trouble falling or staying asleep nearly every night for longer than three months; in some cases, it can last for years. Approximately 1 in 10 people suffer from chronic insomnia, making it a very prevalent condition. At this stage of insomnia, people often suffer from the effects of sleep deprivation, which can have far-reaching consequences on virtually every aspect of health. Causes for chronic insomnia are typically long-lasting and may include:

– Bad sleeping environment
– Mistiming sleep schedule
– Long term health problems
– Long term stress and anxiety

Insomnia can cause a myriad of problems that negatively impact physical health, social relationships, and mental health, and may include:

– Fatigue
– Mood Issues
– Stress
– Brain Performance
– Weight Gain
– Less Interest in Sex
– Weaker Immune System
– Diabetes
– Heart Disease
– Higher Risk of Accidents

Insomnia is a complex condition that affects everyone differently; therefore, it can be difficult to accurately diagnose. The diagnostic process may include:

– Physical Exam — The first step in diagnosing insomnia is to take a detailed look at a person’s physical health. Our physical health can be very revealing about our sleeping habits and often shows signs of medical problems related to insomnia.

– Sleep Habits Review — To determine an individual’s sleep-wake patterns and their level of daytime sleepiness, a sleep insomnia may conduct a review of sleep habits in the form of a questionnaire.

– Sleep Study — If the cause of insomnia is difficult to identify, or signs of another sleep disorder are present (such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome), it may be recommended to undergo a sleep study. This typically involves an overnight stay at a sleep center where tests are performed to monitor and record a variety of body activities during sleep.

Consequences of untreated insomnia may include:

– Impaired ability to concentrate
– Poor memory
– Difficulty coping with minor irritations
– Decreased ability to enjoy social relationships
– Reduced quality of life
– Worsening of depression and/or anxiety

If you have a sleep disorder that includes insomnia, come to Koala® Center For Sleep & TMJ Disorders today. Insomnia can cause serious health problems and should be treated as soon as possible, regardless of how long it lasts. We believe everyone has the right to receive quality care for insomnia and are proud to serve patients from all across the United States.