by Rose K Taylor
Insomnia is not an uncommon sleep problem. Approximately 40-50 percent of the population has experienced short and long term insomnia at one time or another. It can be quite inconvenient but knowing the causes of insomnia can help you in diagnosing if you have the condition or not.
Short-term, or transient insomnia, has many causes. Over time, eliminating (if you can) or decreasing the factors influencing your insomnia can lower its occurrence. It takes some self-discipline to change the environmental factors and personal habits contributing to transient insomnia.
Caffeine is good during the day but not at bedtime. It is found in beverages like coffee, energy drinks, and soft drinks. It is a stimulant that keeps you from falling asleep.
Although alcohol may help you fall asleep, it can be a contributor to insomnia. It interrupts your sleep cycle causing you to wake prematurely and preventing you from a full night’s sleep.
It has been found that smokers take longer to fall asleep than non-smokers due to the nicotine (a stimulant) present in their bodies.
Unwanted lights or noise may be keeping you from falling asleep or staying asleep. Close your windows, blinds, and doors, and use an eye mask and/or a white noise machine for better sleep.
Stress from work, family, financial, or social situations contributes to short-term insomnia. It is best to work through these issues with support from loved ones or licensed therapists so you can move on and regain lost sleep.
Traveling for business or pleasure and disturbing your usual sleep routine will disrupt sleep. If traveling is frequently required try to establish a way to continue your regular routine while away from home.
Long-term, or chronic insomnia, is caused by:
Breathing issues contribute to sleep disturbances. Sleep apnea is one of those conditions that make getting good sleep difficult. The condition is characterized by cessation of breathing several times a night. If you are sleep apneic, see a doctor right away.
Some causes are beyond our control. Conditions such as Restless Leg Syndrome cause the muscles in the legs to move all night as if they were being stimulated. Without treatment, insomnia results.
Issues that cause emotional distress contribute to long term insomnia. Disorders like depression and anxiety fall in this category. You may require medical professionals to deal with these conditions.
Insomnia is a condition that can be reversed with treatment. Before trying other methods, look for natural ways to deal with the problem.
Looking for a better night’s sleep? Look at this sleep CD that uses natural brainwave entrainment and guided relaxation that you can do in the comfort of your own home. For help with transient or chronic sleeping difficulties, claim your free insomnia download – and start sleeping better quickly, no medications required.
