What Is Insomnia?

What causes insomnia?

Some common causes of insomnia are:

• Health problems. These may be things such as pain, depression, medicine side effects, or trouble breathing.

• Circadian rhythm disorder. This is a shift in the body’s normal 24-hour activity cycle.

• Lifestyle factors. These can include a changing sleep schedule or lack of exercise. Too much caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol can also be a cause.

• Sleep settings. This includes things such as a poor mattress, noise, or a room that’s too hot or too cold.

• Stress. You may be stressed about problems at work, money worries, or family events.

Talk with your doctor

Tell your doctor about your sleeping problems. Try to keep a daily sleep diary for a couple of weeks. Write down the time you go to bed and the time you wake up. Also write down how you feel during the day and anything that seems to affect your sleep. If you drink caffeine or alcohol, note when you drink and how much you drink. Include any medicines you use, including over-the-counter medicines and herbs. Your doctor can review your diary and work with you to create a treatment plan. You may need to learn good sleeping habits. You may also need to make some lifestyle changes. Any health problems you have may need to be treated first.