Insomnia is an inability to sleep well. A person with insomnia
may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or may
wake up earlier than desired, resulting in symptoms such as
daytime fatigue, irritability, and poor memory. Short-term
(temporary) insomnia lasting from a day to a month is very
common. An occasional restless night may be caused by a period
of emotional distress or sleeping in an unfamiliar bed. Ongoing
(chronic) insomnia lasts a month or more and can cause
significant distress. Chronic insomnia can be caused by many
other conditions, such as depression, chronic pain, medicines,
poor sleep habits, or even worrying about sleeping. Treatment
for insomnia focuses on the cause of the inability to sleep
well. Insomnia caused by a medical problem usually goes away
after the problem is treated. Treatment options include minor
lifestyle changes, behavioral therapy, and short-term use of
medicines. eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise To
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