What is Insomnia?

How your sleep specialist in Bradenton, and Sarasota, FL, can help when you have insomnia

If you have insomnia, you already know how frustrating it can be. You either can’t get to sleep, don’t stay asleep, or a combination of the two. Fortunately, your sleep specialist can help.

Dr. Jeremy McConnell at Florida Sleep Specialists offers a wide range of sleep services, including treatment for insomnia. He has two convenient office locations in Bradenton, and Sarasota, FL, to help you.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, insomnia is classified into two types, which are:

Acute insomnia is usually temporary and can be caused by a stressful event in your life. This type of insomnia typically doesn’t require professional treatment and will go away on its own.

Chronic insomnia can last at least 3 months. When you have chronic insomnia, it means you have difficulty sleeping at least 3 nights a week. This type of insomnia can be caused by changes in the environment, a stressful work schedule, taking a new medication, or a medical condition.

If you suffer from insomnia that goes untreated, you may experience:

  • Extreme fatigue during the day
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood swings and behavioral changes

Untreated insomnia can also become dangerous, leading to problems driving or operating machinery.

There are several easy remedies you can try which may help you sleep. Remember to:

  • Stay active and exercise regularly
  • Don’t take naps during the day
  • Don’t smoke or drink alcohol
  • Limit the amount of caffeine in your diet
  • Don’t eat meals right before bed
  • Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time

You should also make your bedroom a calm and comfortable place to be. Don’t have a television or computer monitor in your bedroom. You can also create a relaxing ritual like reading before bed. This helps to signal your body it’s time to go to sleep.

Chronic insomnia needs to be treated by a professional. Your sleep specialist can use several options to treat your insomnia, including:

  • Relaxation techniques
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Sleep medications

To learn more about insomnia and insomnia treatment, call Dr. Jeremy McConnell at Florida Sleep Specialists. You can reach him in the Bradenton, FL, office by calling (941) 792-8383, or in Sarasota, FL, by calling (941) 827-0701, so call today!