Insomnia is a common sleep disorder involving problems falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. Transient insomnia is a short-term form of the disorder that typically lasts less than three months. On the other hand, a person is said to have chronic insomnia when symptoms last for three months or longer.
Bouts of transient insomnia are often triggered by a mental health issue, such as anxiety and depression. However, a person’s lifestyle can also cause sleep problems. Treatment of transient insomnia will depend on the underlying cause and any contributing factors.
People with anxiety and depression often experience issues with sleep quality. In this case, treating the underlying disorder can improve problems with insomnia. This treatment typically entails medications, such as antidepressants, as well as therapy.
It can take a few weeks for these medications to have the intended effect. Additionally, antidepressant medications can cause side effects, and it is important to discuss these effects with your doctor. You may need to be switched to another medication or have your dosage adjusted.
If sleepless nights are related to your lifestyle, there are a few steps you can take:
Chronic pain caused by arthritis and other medical conditions can also cause problems with sleep. Your doctor can help you find ways to manage chronic pain conditions and allow you to feel more comfortable at night.
It may be tempting to take an over-the-counter drug to induce sleep, but keep in mind that these medications can contribute to worsening sleep quality when taken over time. If your attempts to address transient insomnia are unsuccessful, you can undergo a sleep study to gain more insight into the health issue.