Insomnia

One in four Americans struggles with insomnia, which may cause excessive daytime sleepiness. Turn to Restful Solutions in Duanesburg, New York, where sleep and respiratory specialist Jodi Conlan, NP-C, and the team evaluate, diagnose, and treat insomnia to help you get a restful night’s sleep. Call the office to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment, or use the online booking feature today. 

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects your ability to fall or stay asleep. It’s caused by various factors and may negatively impact the way you feel the next morning, your overall physical and mental health, and your performance at work, school, and in social settings. 

Some types of insomnia are acute, or short-lived, while others are chronic (ongoing). Chronic insomnia lasts at least three months. Primary insomnia happens on its own, while secondary insomnia is a symptom of an underlying medical condition or circumstance. 

Fortunately, insomnia treatment can help you sleep easier and wake up well-rested.

What are the symptoms of insomnia?

Symptoms of insomnia may include:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Waking up tired
• Problems staying asleep or falling asleep
• Waking up too early 
• Not being able to fall back to sleep
• Exteme daytime sleepiness
• Delayed response times
• Difficulty remembering things
• Slowed thought processes
• Trouble concentrating
• Confusion 
• Depression, irritability, or other mood changes

You might struggle with simple activities of daily living because of insomnia. This sleep disorder also increases the risk of accidents, such as car crashes.

What are the risk factors for insomnia?

About one in three adults experiences insomnia symptoms. Risk factors for developing this common sleep disorder include:

• Changes in sleep schedules
• Brain activity changes
• Infections, injuries, Parkinson's disease, or acid reflux
• Depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns
• Life changes
• Stress
• Jet lag
• Work schedule changes
• Being a light sleeper
• Trauma
• Nocturnal panic attacks
• Nightmare disorders

You might have difficulty sleeping because of drinking caffeine, having alcohol, doing strenuous exercise, or eating a large meal right before bed. 

When not treated, insomnia increases the risk of mental health disorders, high blood pressure, a heart attack or stroke, obstructive sleep apnea, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other health problems.

How is insomnia diagnosed?

The Restful Solutions team can diagnose insomnia or other sleep disorders after discussing your medical history, symptoms, and medications. They meet with you in person or virtually to review your lifestyle habits, diet, sleep schedule, and goals. You might complete a home sleep apnea study, lab testing, imaging procedures, or other diagnostic tests. 

How is insomnia treated?

Treating insomnia may include:

• Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, or smoking before bed
• Healthy diet and exercise changes
• Prescription medications
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other mental health treatments 
• Herbs and other supplements
• Sleep apnea and respiratory disorder treatments
  • Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
  • Bilevel positive airway pressure (BPAP) 
  • Oral appliances
  • Supplemental oxygen
• Light therapy
• Regular sleep schedule
• Avoiding naps, late-night workouts, and large meals before bed

Your specialist personalizes a highly effective treatment plan and follows up to ensure it’s working as designed.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth insomnia evaluation at Restful Solutions by phone or request one online today.