Insomnio

Insomnia
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that includes trouble falling
asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early, resulting in
daytime impairment. It is a common problem, usually
occurring alongwith other diseases or emotional stress
(comorbid insomnia). It can also exist without other
medical or mental health causes (primary insomnia).
Long-standing (chronic) insomnia can lead todaytime
consequences such as fatigue or sleepiness, difficulty
with thinking, and mood impairments, which can
interfere with performance at school and work.
RISK FACTORS FOR INSOMNIA
• Age older than60 years
• History of mental health disorders including depression,
generalized anxiety disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder
• Emotional stress
• Working at night or in shifts
• Travelingthrough different time zones
PREVENTION
• Go to sleep and get up at the same time every day.
• If you are having a hard time falling asleep, leave the bedroom and engage in a quiet
activityuntil you feel sleepy. Return to bed to try to sleep again.
• Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages during the 8 hours before your bedtime. Also avoid
eating heavy meals immediately before sleep anddrinking alcohol close to bedtime.
• Create a calming environment when you go to sleep.
• Although exercise can help you sleep better, avoid exercising immediately prior to
your bedtime.
• Do notuse your bed for work or other activities; use it only for sleep or sex.
TREATMENT
• If the problem is comorbid insomnia, treat the associated disorder in addition to
focusing on insomnia.
• Ifsleep hygiene changes are not successful, your physician may suggest cognitive
behavioral therapy, which modifies sleep behaviors and explores your attitudes toward
and thoughts about sleep.
•Several prescription medications are available for insomnia, but these should be used only
under the guidance of physicians and only for a short period.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
• Cleveland Clinic...