What is Insomnia?

Answer:
If you often experience difficulty falling asleep you

may have insomnia. A general definition of insomnia is “difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep or both” and insomnia is a symptom (or condition) and is not considered a diagnosis. However, a great number of people suffer symptoms of insomnia. In fact, it is estimated that up to fifty percent of the general population are affected by insomnia – and that approximately ten percent of this population suffer from what is known as “chronic” insomnia.

There are several factors which may lead to insomnia. Some of these include:

1) lack of sleep

2) quantity of sleep

3) quality of sleep

4) stress

5) snoring (your own or your partner)

6) hot flashes

7) pregnancy

Most adults need approximately eight hours of sleep a night, although these needs vary widely among individuals and insomnia can affect everyone - men, women, and children; however, women are more apt to be affected than men. Insomnia also tends to increase with age.

There are different types of insomnia:

1) transient or short-term (symptoms last greater than one week)

2) intermittent (symptoms occur “on and off” which may happen every now and then)

3) chronic (symptoms occur at least three nights weekly and last greater than a month or more)

Insomnia may cause difficulties during the day. Some of these difficulties may include:

1) excessive sleepiness

2) depression

3) irritability

4) fatigue

Chronic insomnia can be primary or secondary. Primary insomnia is not associated with other health problems. However, secondary insomnia can be caused by other medical conditions. So if you are experiencing symptoms related to insomnia you should consult your physician.