Insomnia is a sleep disorder that makes it hard for you to fall asleep, stay asleep, and can make you wake up too early. Insomnia can affect your health, work performance, energy level, quality of life, and mood. Every individual requires a different amount of sleep but in general, adults need an average of seven hours of sleep per night. Don’t let sleepless nights affect your quality of life; visit our insomnia specialist Los Angeles

Symptoms

Symptoms of insomnia include:

  • Trouble falling asleep
  • Trouble staying asleep
  • Waking up early
  • Daytime sleepiness and tiredness
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Ongoing worries about sleep
  • More accidents or errors
  • Difficulty focusing, remembering or paying attention

Causes

Insomnia may be the sole problem, but it is possible that it is a symptom of other conditions. You may be experiencing chronic insomnia as a result of life events, unhealthy habits, or stress. The best way to cure insomnia is to treat any underlying causes. Chronic insomnia can be caused by:

  • Travel
  • Work schedule
  • Stress
  • Consuming too much before sleep
  • Poor sleep habits
  • Medications
  • Mental health disorder
  • Medical condition
  • Nicotine, alcohol, or caffeine

Treatment

Restoring your ability to get a restful night sleep can be as simple as addressing any issues related to your insomnia or by adjusting your sleep habits. If that doesn’t work, there are some other options you can try:

  • Nonprescription sleep aids contain antihistamines can help make you drowsy. These are not to be used regularly.
  • Prescription sleeping pills can help you get a restful night sleep, and help you stay asleep. It is not recommended to rely on these options for long periods of time unless it is a medication that has been approved for long-term use.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy specifically for insomnia can help control or destroy the negative actions or thoughts that are keeping you from getting a restful night sleep. This type of therapy helps you recognize what is keeping you awake and help you make the necessary changes. It also helps you develop ideal sleep habits such as:
    • Sleep restriction
    • Relaxation techniques
    • Stimulus control therapy
    • Light therapy
    • How to remain passively awake

If you are suffering from insomnia, we encourage you to call us at (213) 386-2511 to talk to our insomnia specialist Los Angeles or schedule an appointment online.