Types of Insomnia
There are two types of insomnia. The most common type is
called secondary insomnia. More than 8 out of 10 people
with insomnia are believed to have secondary insomnia.
Secondary means that the insomnia is a symptom or a
side-effect of some other problem. Some of the problems
that can cause secondary insomnia include:
- Certain illnesses, such as some
heart and lung diseases
- Pain, anxiety, and depression
- Medicines that delay or disrupt
sleep as a side-effect
- Caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and
other substances that affect sleep
- Another sleep disorder, such as
restless legs syndrome; a poor sleep environment; or
a change in sleep routine
In contrast, primary insomnia is not a
side-effect of medicines or another medical problem. It
is its own disorder, and generally persists for least 1
month or longer.
Overview
Insomnia is a common health problem. It can cause
excessive daytime sleepiness and a lack of energy.
Long-term insomnia can cause you to feel depressed or
irritable; have trouble paying attention, learning, and
remembering; and not do your best on the job or at
school. Insomnia also can limit the energy you have to
spend with friends or family.
Insomnia can be mild to severe
depending on how often it occurs and for how long.
Chronic insomnia means having symptoms at least 3 nights
per week for more than a month. Insomnia that lasts for
less time is known as short-term or acute insomnia.
Outlook
Secondary insomnia often resolves or
improves without treatment if you can eliminate its
cause. This is especially true if the problem can be
corrected soon after it starts. Better sleep habits and
lifestyle changes often help relieve insomnia. You may
need to see a doctor or sleep specialist to get the best
relief for insomnia that is persistent or for which the
cause of the sleep problem is unclear. |
