A recent study indicated that 10% of people in Australia suffer from mild insomnia. In the United States, about 30% of people experience insomnia. Similar numbers are observed in other countries. There are several types of insomnia. Insomnia may be a result of any of the underlying physiologic processes, such as hormonal or neurochemical imbalances. The proper sleep environment is essential for proper sleep. Check out the following on the syndrome and treatment for insomnia.
Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless leg syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological condition in which a person feels the urge to move their legs repeatedly. This condition can occur when the patient is sitting or lying down, and can disrupt sleep. Although many people have a difficult time sleeping, there are medications and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate symptoms. Read on to learn more.
Psychiatric Conditions
Insomnia is a common ailment that causes repeated difficulty falling asleep, resulting in daytime impairment. In fact, almost 95% of American adults suffer from at least one episode of insomnia each year. Getting proper sleep is essential for one's overall health, and a thorough medical history is essential for diagnosing any underlying psychiatric condition. Insomnia is commonly associated with anxiety and depression, and treatment includes medication.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is when part or all of your upper airway blocked while you sleep. How to diagnose and treat OSA? There are various methods available. It is important to note that OSA is often difficult to diagnose and treat. Fortunately, there are now effective techniques available. Patients with OSA can benefit from a variety of treatments, including surgery, positive airway pressure therapy, oral appliances, pharmacological agents, and lifestyle changes.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia is a treatment that involves changing the ways in which you think and feel. Depending on the treatment, the order of CBT-I components may vary. These techniques work by helping you develop good sleep habits and avoid the things that keep you from sleeping well. This treatment involves the elimination of environmental or psychological factors that condition your mind to resist sleep. For example, you might be coached to stick to a set bedtime. Likewise, you may be encouraged to avoid napping or to use the bed solely for sleep. Eventually, this process will break this cycle.
Long-term Insomnia Treatment
While over-the-counter sleeping pills can relieve insomnia symptoms for some people, they don't treat the underlying causes and have troublesome side effects. Instead, you should visit your GP. Your doctor will ask you about your sleep patterns and lifestyle, as well as your caffeine and alcohol consumption. They will also check your medical history. There are also several options for treatment of insomnia. Your doctor can recommend a treatment that is tailored to your specific needs.
If the cause of insomnia is unknown, your doctor may do a physical examination on you to check the signs of your medical problems. Your doctor may refer you to a sleep clinic to do a sleep study test if you have symptoms of sleep disorder such as sleep apnea. Talk to your doctor for diagnosis and treatment based on your current sleep condition.