Insomnia can manifest in various ways, leaving people struggling to get a good night's sleep. For instance, a teacher might lie awake at night, preoccupied with lesson plans and concerned about their students' challenges. A construction worker may find it difficult to sleep on their days off due to their job's inconsistent schedule and physical exhaustion. A retiree may wake up several times at night, worrying about their health and financial security. For some people, insomnia is minorly inconvenient, and for others, it is a significant disruption to everyday life. Alertive Healthcare Medical Group in Riverside, CA, is here to support you if you need further assistance or guidance with insomnia.

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or when able to sleep, the quality is poor. It may also be associated with waking up earlier than anticipated. 

Acute Insomnia

Acute insomnia is short-term and lasts for less than three months. It usually occurs because of an identifiable cause like stress, a significant life event, jetlag, shift work, medication, etc. Symptoms may fade on their own as a person deals with the cause. 

Chronic Insomnia

Chronic insomnia occurs at least three times a week and lasts for at least three months. Various factors, including underlying health problems, medications, other sleep disorders, etc, can cause insomnia. 

Identifying Insomnia

It's essential to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of insomnia so that you can receive appropriate care. Understanding these symptoms can help you determine when it's necessary to seek guidance from a medical professional. By staying aware of the possible symptoms and seeking professional help when needed, you can take the first step towards better sleep and improved health.

Some common signs include:

• Difficulty falling asleep at night
• Waking up frequently during the night
• Waking up too early and being unable to fall back asleep
• Feeling unrefreshed upon waking up
• Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
• Irritability or moodiness
• Difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks

Insomnia Causes and Contributing Factors

If you are having trouble sleeping and experiencing insomnia symptoms, take a moment to reflect on your life and consider if any of the following causes or contributing factors apply to you. Identifying potential triggers can help you make adjustments to address your insomnia and seek guidance from your healthcare provider if needed.

Some common causes and contributing factors:

• Stress 
• Mental Health Disorders
• Poor Sleep Hygiene/Habits
• Work schedule/Travel
• Medical Conditions
• Certain Medications
• Sleep-related disorders

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that can negatively affect both your physical and mental health. Not being able to sleep can result in fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and an increased risk of accidents or injuries. Additionally, long-term insomnia is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions. Insomnia can be the primary problem, or it can be related to other underlying conditions, so it's essential to seek care and guidance from a healthcare provider.

Good Sleep Hygiene and Bedtime Habits Can Support Insomnia Prevention

Having trouble sleeping can be a frustrating experience, and the right solution is different for everyone. However, developing healthy sleep habits and maintaining good sleep hygiene can support healthy sleep patterns and prevent insomnia.

Here are some ideas: 

• Establish a consistent sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up around the same time each day. 
• Limit exposure to screens and bright light before bedtime
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol close to bedtime
• Create a comfortable and quiet sleep environment
• Design a bedtime routine or ritual that relaxes and prepares your mind for bed.

Good sleep hygiene and bedtime habits help create a supportive environment for your mind and body to rest. Remember, even small changes can make a difference in your journey toward better sleep and preventing insomnia. However, some people may still experience significant impacts on their lives due to insomnia despite following good sleep habits. If you can relate to this, seeking guidance from your healthcare provider is essential.

When to Speak to a Healthcare Provider

If you are experiencing difficulty sleeping and it is affecting your daily activities, or you notice a decline in your mental or physical health. In that case, seeking advice from a healthcare professional might be a good idea. Seeking medical care can help improve your overall well-being, especially if you are experiencing insomnia-like symptoms. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you explore different treatment options and start your path toward better sleep.

Alertive Healthcare Medical Group has a team of experienced healthcare providers who can help you diagnose the underlying cause of your symptoms, develop a personalized treatment plan, and achieve better sleep. If you're in Riverside, CA, you can contact our clinic by calling 951-724-4954 or booking an appointment on Alertivehealthcare.org.