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Some Information on Insomnia

© Kathern Welsh

Who does Insomnia Affect?

Anyone can suffer from insomnia at any time in life. This condition can be found in all age groups, and seems to be more common in females (especially after menopause) and in the elderly of both sexes. Advancing age seems to decrease the ability to sleep.

How is Insomnia Evaluated?

A medical history and a sleep history are both very valuable sources of information in determining the causes of insomnia. A sleep diary filled out by the patient along with information provided by the patient's bed partner concerning the quantity and quality of the patient's sleep is a great help to the doctor. Specialized sleep studies may be recommended, if the doctor suspects a primary sleep disorder such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy. (see May 19, 2000 article)

Can Insomnia be Treated?

Transient and intermittent insomnia lasts only a few days at a time and may not require treatment. However, those who experience daytime sleepiness and impaired performance as a result of transient insomnia may find the use of short-acting sleeping pills will help to improve sleep and next-day alertness. It's not a good idea to use over-the-counter sleep medications for the treatment of insomnia since even these can produce unwanted side effects.

Chronic insomnia requires proper diagnoses and the treatment of any underlying medical or psychological problems or behaviors.

The long-term use of sleeping pills for chronic insomnia is controversial and should be done only under the supervision of a physician. These drugs are usually prescribed at the lowest possible dose and for short duration. The dosage of most of these medications must be gradually reduced as the medicine is discontinued. If stopped abruptly, the insomnia often recurs for a night or two. It's often a good idea to try behavioral modification techniques to improve sleep such as relaxation therapy, sleep restriction therapy, and reconditioning.

Relaxation therapy

Specific and effective techniques can reduce or eliminate anxiety and body tension. Learning the techniques of relaxation therapy will allow the person's mind to stop "racing," muscles can relax, and restful sleep will result. These techniques take practice to learn but many are very pleased with the results achieved.

Sleep restriction

Spending too much time in bed trying to sleep can be a contributing cause of insomnia. A sleep restriction program that at first allows only a few hours of sleep during the night and then gradually increases the time in bed can often lead to getting a more normal night's sleep.