Insomnia is defined as difficulty initiating
or maintaining sleep and can be a symptom of many other sleep
disorders such as obstructive
sleep apnea or restless
legs syndrome. Insomnia can also be caused by other medical
disorders such as depression, anxiety, chronic pain conditions,
and even lung disease. Some people have chronic or persistent
insomnia and, as a result, develop behavior patterns that make
the insomnia even worse.
People with insomnia often experience:
Difficulty falling asleep
Waking in the middle of the night and having
difficulty getting back to sleep
Anxiety in the evening
Irritability
Daytime fatigue
When the underlying cause of the insomnia
is discovered and treated, the insomnia usually resolves. If insomnia
is not diagnosed and treated appropriately or promptly, it can
lead to alcohol or drug abuse, depression, chronic fatigue, and
poor sleep habits.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.