Insomnia and Common Causes

Insomnia is known as one of the common sleep disorders and is characterized by frequent interruptions to sleep, restlessness, shorter than usual sleeping time and occasionally by complete wakefulness.

Apart from being extremely annoying, insomnia can cause sufferers to lose their energy and enthusiasm, develop memory and concentration problems and to feel lethargic and frustrated. This in turn can lead to a drop in work productivity and also to accidents which can have serious consequences.

There are many different things which can cause insomnia but here are some which are perhaps most commonly seen:

Our Environment.

The environment plays an important part when it comes to you getting a sound night’s sleep and such things as light, noise or extremes of hot and cold can lead to insomnia.

Substance Abuse.

Possible the most obvious of all forms of substance abuse in relation to insomnia is coffee and other drinks such as tea and colas which contain high levels of caffeine. Another commonly accepted cause is smoking with heavy smokers consuming more than enough nicotine to result in problems sleeping. What is possibly not so well known however is that this list of substances is extensive and even boasts several herbal remedies used for a wide range of diverse problems and which can produce insomnia as a side effect. We should also not forget alcohol. Although it is certainly true that alcohol can frequently make you feel tired at first once it has been metabolized it will also keep you wide awake.

Disturbance To The Biological Clock.

Each of us has our own body clock or circadian rhythm which is controlled in part by light and darkness and which regulates the body’s sleep/wake cycle. If this clock is thrown out of balance by things like staying up all night studying in college, partying into the small hours or jetting off around the world on business or for pleasure, then you will suffer from sleeping difficulties while the clock slowly tries to re-adjust itself.

Activities Before Going To Bed.

There are several things that can lead to insomnia if they take place within a short time of going to bed. Two of the commonest are exercising shortly before retiring or eating a big meal shortly before going to bed. In both cases these activities stimulate your metabolism and keep you awake.

Health Problems.

There are a large number of health problems that are known to induce insomnia including heart failure, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, ulcers, and Parkinson’s disease. Asthma is also being seen more and more as a cause of insomnia, as is the need for frequent urination, heartburn and chronic pain resulting from things like arthritis and leg cramps. The list of medical conditions which can cause insomnia is very long and also includes other types of sleep disorder such as sleep apnea as well as a range of psychiatric conditions.

Emotional Problems.

Almost all of us suffer from emotional distress occasionally and this can frequently lead to such things as anxiety or anger. But, if we keep our feelings to ourselves instead of talking about them and seeking a solution to them then this commonly results in insomnia.