Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that involves symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, or waking too early.

Insomnia is diagnosed as acute, with symptoms occurring three nights per week for less than three months, or chronic, lasting three months or more with the same symptoms.

Factors contributing to insomnia include stress, lifestyle habits like excess caffeine consumption, and irregular sleep schedules.

Women and older adults are more frequently affected by insomnia, often linked to stress or physical health conditions such as chronic pain, hormonal changes during menopause, cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, and acid reflux.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is often used to treat insomnia by teaching relaxation techniques and establishing a regular sleep schedule to modify the negative thoughts and habits that disrupt sleep.

Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining consistent sleep times, a comfortable environment, and avoiding coffee and heavy meals before bed, can improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.

In chronic cases, treatments such as light therapy or melatonin supplements can be considered to help regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle.