Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep or difficulty staying asleep. Intermittent insomnia affects about two thirds of Americans at least on an intermittent basis and about nine percent of Americans chronically more than twice a week.

Insomnia is a sleep disorder but also may be a symptom of a more serious sleep disorder such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Insomnia can be classified as transient lasting from a few nights to a few weeks but may also occur on a more chronic basis. Patients with insomnia may not fall asleep during the day like many patients with OSA and other sleep disorders but patients with insomnia may feel very fatigued throughout the day.

Good sleep hygiene is a set of behavioral patterns that can help patients with insomnia. This includes going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning. It also involves avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine as well as any medications that may have a stimulating effect.

A number of medications can be prescribed by your physician that may also contribute to your treatment.