What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia is a sleep disorder in which you have trouble falling and or staying asleep.
The condition can be short-term (acute) or can last a long time (chronic).
It may also come and go.
Acute insomnia lasts from 1 night to a few weeks.
Insomnia is chronic when it happens at least 3 nights a week for 3 months or more.
Types of Insomnia
1. Primary insomnia:
This means your sleep problems aren’t linked to any other health condition or problem;
2. Secondary insomnia:
This means you have trouble sleeping because of a health condition (like asthma, depression, arthritis, cancer, or heartburn); pain; medication; or substance use (like alcohol).
Insomnia Risk Factors
Insomnia affects women more than men and older people more than younger ones;
Young and middle age African Americans also have a higher risk.
Insomnia Complications
Our bodies and brains need sleep so they can repair themselves.
It's also crucial for learning and keeping memories.
If insomnia is keeping you awake, you could have:
1. A higher risk of health problems like high blood pressure, obesity, and depression;
2. A higher risk of falling, if you’re an older woman;
3. Trouble focusing;
4. Anxiety;
5. Grumpiness;
6. Slow reaction time that can lead to a car crash.
Mental health disorders.
Anxiety disorders, such as post traumatic stress disorder, may disrupt your sleep.
Awakening too early can be a sign of depression.
Insomnia often occurs with other mental health disorders as well.
