Am I suffering from insomnia? | POPSUGAR Fitness



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Portrait of young asian, sad and serene Indian woman sits near the window at home. She lowers her eyes, shakes her head and thinks deeply with an empty expression.

Everyone has nights where they just can not fall asleep, but while people call this unusual, insomnia, doctors define it differently. If you suffer from insomnia, you will not come to work with watery eyes and holding a huge cup of coffee once, but again and again. Here's how to find out if your agitation requires medical attention.

What are the signs of insomnia?

Marc Raphaelson, MD, a member of the American Academy of Neurology, told POPSUGAR that brief sleep interruptions were common and often normal, but that he was concerned that his patient was suffering from insomnia. He had difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep asleep or waking up early in the morning after a short sleep. "If these problems last more than a month and affect your ability to function during the day, it's time to talk to your doctor.

On the one hand, if you suffer from insomnia, it could be a side effect of another disease to treat. "People who have survived emotional trauma or emotional abuse often suffer from insomnia and have to overcome both of these problems," Dr. Raphaelson said. "Insomnia can [also] resulting from restless legs or sleep apnea, even for people who do not snore. "Other conditions can also contribute to insomnia, so if sleep disorders have become a constant part of your life, it's worth having a conversation."

Are there ways to treat insomnia at home?

Before seeing a doctor (or while you are waiting for your first appointment with a specialist), you can try several things at home that could help you. "Try to get up at a regular scheduled time, even if you have not slept well," Dr. Raphaelson advised. "If you have to take a nap, limit yourself to 20 minutes, even if you only sleep part of the time." It also suggests avoiding caffeine or chocolate afternoons and becoming aware of your nighttime routine because some habits can trigger insomnia.

"Several hours before bedtime, stop eating, stop exercising, stop balancing your checkbook and stop arguing with … well, whoever," he said. Dr. Raphaelson told POPSUGAR, stress can affect your sleep. Also reduce the time spent watching TV, using the computer or watching your phone's screen because blue light keeps you awake. And while it may be tempting, remember that "alcohol is never, never good for sleep," he said. If you depend on alcohol to close your eyes, you should get help immediately.

When should I see a doctor for insomnia?

If insomnia has an impact on your life, it's never too early to see a doctor. This is especially true if you are depressed or have suffered emotional trauma at any time of your life, explained Dr. Raphaelson.

Many people have sleep problems for a short period of time, then return to normal, or are able to get back on their tracks by following a night routine like the one described below. But if you have sleep problems that last more than three months, the best is to get help from a professional. Whether insomnia is the fundamental problem or the symptom of another medical problem, it is essential to follow a treatment that will help you get enough sleep.

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