Insomnia

Insomnia is a sleeping disorder characterized by persistent difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep despite the opportunity. It is typically followed by functional impairment while awake. Insomniacs have been known to complain about being unable to close their eyes or "rest their mind" for more than a few minutes at a time. Both organic and non-organic insomnia constitute a sleep disorder. 1

The complaint of insomnia encompasses many sleep problems. These include difficulty falling asleep, sleeping too lightly, being easily disrupted with multiple spontaneous awakenings, or early morning awakenings with inability to fall back asleep. The timing of insomnia is important in determining its etiology. Therefore, having each patient define what he or she means by insomnia is essential. 2

Insomnia is not considered a disease, but rather, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep, or by other disturbances in sleep. Insomnia can lead to daytime drowsiness, reduced concentration, and lack of feeling refreshed or rested upon awakening. About 50% of adults experience occasional insomnia, and approximately 10% experience chronic (long-standing) insomnia. Insomnia that leads to significant daytime drowsiness that affects normal functioning (e.g., falling asleep while driving) should be brought to the attention of a physician. 3

  1. insomnia.dunway.com
  2. www.emedicine.com
  3. www.mercksource.com


Google

 

Leave a Reply: Insomnia"

You must be logged in to post a comment.