It’s normal to occasionally have times when it’s hard to sleep. But if you deal with insomnia regularly, that’s not normal. When you don’t sleep well, you can’t function well.
Sleep medicine specialists at Emory Sleep Center are here to help. Our experts can work with you to identify the cause of your sleep issues and help you take steps to get a better night’s rest. With our team at your side, you can put the nightmare of insomnia behind you and enjoy sweet dreams again.
Insomnia
Can’t Sleep? Don’t Take it Lying Down
Why Choose Emory Healthcare?
Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you enjoy better sleep and quality of life. We follow the best available medical evidence and are committed to providing the highest-quality care.
There are many reasons why people can’t sleep. We look at your sleep habits and overall physical and mental health. Then, we develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique situation.
With our experienced sleep specialists, you can rest easy—figuratively and literally.
What Is Insomnia?
Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects millions of Americans. It may make it hard to fall or stay asleep or cause you to wake up earlier than you would like.
Episodes that last three months or less are short-term insomnia. If you have insomnia at least three times a week for more than three months, we consider it chronic (long-term).
Insomnia may have a variety of causes, including:
- Medical conditions, such as asthma, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, chronic pain, an overactive thyroid gland and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Menopause
- Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression
- Other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome (RLS) and sleep apnea
- Use of alcohol, caffeine, tobacco or drugs
Sometimes, people have insomnia for no known reason.
Insomnia Symptoms
Having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep is the main symptom of insomnia. But sleep difficulties may lead to other symptoms, such as:
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Feeling unrested upon awakening
- Having uneasy thoughts about going to sleep
- Irritability, anxiety or depression
- Lack of concentration
Insomnia Risk Factors
Anyone can have insomnia. But factors that may increase your risk include:
- An irregular work schedule
- Being age 60 or older
- Being a woman
- Certain medical and mental health conditions
- Lack of exercise
- Stress
Insomnia Diagnosis
To diagnose insomnia, we rely on:
- A discussion about your symptoms and medical history. We talk about your overall physical and mental health and your sleep habits.
- A physical exam.
The sleep medicine team will use this information to guide the next steps.
Tips to Improve Your Sleep
When we diagnose insomnia, we work with you to develop a personalized treatment program. But often, there are steps you can take on your own to improve your sleep:
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- Avoid spicy foods and large meals right before bedtime.
- Limit or avoid alcohol, tobacco and products that contain caffeine or nicotine, especially close to your bedtime.
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- As part of your bedtime routine, do a quiet activity, like reading a book.
- Don’t nap during the day.
- Keep a sleep diary to gain insight into your sleep problems. Each day, note when you sleep and wake up, the quality of your sleep, how you feel when you wake up and what you eat or drink. Also, note any side effects from medicines you take.
- Limit screen time close to bedtime. Avoid the use of smartphones, tablets, computers and television.
- Make your bedroom dark, cool and comfortable for sleep.
- Try to go to bed and get up at the same time every day.
- When you can’t sleep after being in bed for at least 15 minutes, get out of bed and do a quiet activity in dim light. Don’t go back to bed until you’re sleepy.
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- Identify things that help you relax and manage your stress.
- Get regular exercise that follows your doctor’s guidance. However, avoid physical activity in the hours close to your bedtime.
Insomnia Treatments
Along with lifestyle adjustments, we may recommend medication to help you sleep better. Some people also benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you change thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep.
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