Insomnia

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Insomnia

Insomnia is an inability to sleep well. A person with insomnia may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or may wake up earlier than desired, resulting in symptoms such as daytime fatigue, irritability, and poor memory.

Short-term (temporary) insomnia lasting from a day to a month is very common. An occasional restless night may be caused by a period of emotional distress or sleeping in an unfamiliar bed. Ongoing (chronic) insomnia lasts a month or more and can cause significant distress. Chronic insomnia can be caused by many other conditions, such as depression, chronic pain, medications, poor sleep habits, or even worrying about sleeping.

Treatment for insomnia focuses on the cause of the inability to sleep well. Insomnia caused by an underlying medical problem usually goes away once the problem is treated. Treatment options include minor lifestyle changes, behavioral therapy, and short-term use of medications.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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