How to Treat Different Types of Insomnia
The clinical definition of insomnia is having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. Waking up early and not being able to fall back to sleep is also a common concern. It’s believed to affect around 30% of Americans, but doctors don’t consider it a condition until the sleep issues begin to have a negative impact on your daily life. These impacts could be having trouble focusing, low energy levels, irritability, depression, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues.
The treatments and therapies for each type of insomnia are different. So Centers Health Care is looking at the types of insomnia and the potential remedies for each.
Types of Insomnia
Insomnia is grouped into two categories:
- Acute insomnia is related to a specific event. Jet lag is a common one, as is stress brought on by a major event like a job change, big test, illness or death of a loved one, etc. Having an irregular sleep schedule can also bring on acute insomnia. This tends to resolve itself after several days or weeks.
- Chronic insomnia is tied to another physical or mental health condition and is defined by occurring at least three times per week for three months. This can be brought on by sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, asthma, chronic pain, hormone or thyroid disorders, anxiety, depression, and medication side effects, among other conditions.
Treatments for Insomnia
You’ll want to start by addressing your sleep issues with your doctor. Sometimes a simple blood test can help identify problem points, and a doctor will know best about the side effects of medication or the combination of drugs.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-I) is one popular method of treatment, especially for those suffering from stress or anxiety. A therapist teaches relaxation techniques and ways to reduce stress.
Getting plenty of exercise early in the day and meditating in evenings are recommendations that you can try today. Other potential remedies include melatonin and CBD, but you’ll want to discuss those with your doctor.
