Insomnia

If falling asleep or getting restful sleep is a major problem for you, insomnia may be the cause. Because it can be a multifactorial condition, you should be seen by experienced medical providers like those at AssociatesMD. To learn more, call one of the offices in Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Davie, Weston, Margate, Dania Beach, or Fort Lauderdale, Florida, or use the online scheduling to book your appointment today.

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder in which you don't get enough sleep, have poor-quality sleep, or both. If you suffer from insomnia, you may feel chronically exhausted in addition to other frustrating symptoms.

Insomnia can be either acute or chronic. Acute insomnia is temporary and usually resolves within anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks while chronic insomnia lasts for a month or more.

What are the symptoms of insomnia?

Insomnia symptoms can vary by sufferer, but most men and women experience at least a few of the following problems:

• Trouble falling asleep
• Frequently waking up
• Waking up earlier than you need to
• Daytime drowsiness
• Trouble with concentration
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Memory problems
• Making mistakes or having accidents during the day

Many insomnia sufferers don't realize all the effects that lack of sleep is having on their lives at first, but eventually, insomnia is likely to make your days nearly as difficult as your nights unless you get help.

What causes insomnia?

There are many reasons for insomnia, and often several factors are at play, including:

• Stress
• Erratic schedules
• Heavy meals late at night
• Overuse of caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol
• Medications, such as blood pressure drugs, amphetamines, cold medicines, and antidepressants
• Chronic pain-causing conditions
• Restless legs syndrome

Identifying the root cause of your insomnia is often helpful in treatment, so if possible, keep a diary of your sleep problems. With this information, your specialist can tailor an insomnia treatment plan that suits your needs.

How is insomnia treated?

The AssociatesMD team will treat any underlying conditions and then help you make effective changes to control your insomnia. This may include changing your sleep schedule, eating habits, or exercise routine.

Many insomnia sufferers find cognitive behavioral therapy helpful. You can learn relaxation techniques that allow you to unwind enough to fall asleep and enjoy a restful sleep.

Although medication isn't a long-term solution for insomnia, sometimes it can help retrain your sleep cycles for a few weeks until you're able to sleep well on your own.

To enjoy peaceful rest again, use online scheduling or call the AssociatesMD location nearest you.