Almost everyone occasionally suffers from short-term insomnia. This problem can result from stress, jet lag, diet, or many other factors. Insomnia almost always affects job performance and well-being the next day. About 60 million Americans a year have insomnia frequently or for extended periods of time, which leads to even more serious sleep deficits. Insomnia tends to increase with age and affects about 40 percent of women and 30 percent of men. It is often the major disabling symptom of an underlying medical disorder.

For short-term insomnia, doctors may prescribe sleeping pills. Most sleeping pills stop working after several weeks of nightly use, however, and long-term use can actually interfere with good sleep. Mild insomnia often can be prevented or cured by practicing good sleep habits (Tips for a Good Night's Sleep). For more serious cases of insomnia, researchers are experimenting with light therapy and other ways to alter circadian cycles.

Overview of Insomnia 

Symptoms:

Excessive daytime sleepiness, irritability, inability to concentrate at school or work.

Diagnosis:

Your sleep specialist will ask a series of specific questions that aid in making this diagnosis. Sometimes, an overnight polysomnogram (PSG) is helpful to rule out other sleep disorders.

Treatment:

Behavior therapy is very helpful in addressing the underlying problem. Prescription sleeping aids can be used for short term relief. However, most sleep specialists discourage long term use due to the associated side effects.

What We Treat