Types of insomnia

Acute insomnia

Acute insomnia is the most common type of insomnia, and is typically caused by stressful life events such as the death of a loved one, jet lag, changes in sleeping environments, some acute medical illnesses, and stimulant medications. It is short-term insomnia that can last from a few days to a few weeks, and normal sleeping habits return once the acute event is over.

Chronic insomnia

Chronic insomnia is diagnosed if you suffer sleep problems on at least three nights a week for three months or more. Chronic insomnia can lead to increased risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and motor vehicle accidents. Over time, this lack of sleep can also contribute to health problems such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

Transient insomnia

Transient insomnia is that which lasts less than one week, and is usually caused by something obvious like stress.

Did you know?

You are more likely to experience insomnia if you’re female, older, or have another chronic health condition.

Difficulty falling asleep despite being tired.
Lying awake at night.
Waking up several times during the night.
Trouble getting back to sleep when awakened.
Waking up too early in the morning.
Still feel tired after waking up.
Finding it hard to nap during the day when you’re tired.
Feeling drowsy and irritable during the day.
Difficulty concentrating during the day because you’re tired.

Symptoms of insomnia

Apart from trouble sleeping, insomnia can lead to other issues, such as

Daytime fatigue
Depression, or anxiety
Low motivation or energy
A lack of coordination and rash actions, which can lead to errors or accidents
Poor performance at school or work
Difficulty socializing, working, or studying
Concerns or frustrations about sleeping

The most common causes of insomnia are:

Your bedroom environment - it’s either too hot, too cold, or noisy
Having an uncomfortable bed
Having a poor sleep regime or sleeping too much during the day
Getting too little physical exercise
Stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine
Environmental factors such as jet lag or shift work which can disturb your sleep patterns
Some health conditions such as asthma and cancer which can make it hard to sleep. Night sweats due to the menopause may cause insomnia, as can physical pain from conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Taking medicines that affect sleep, such as steroids
Watching the television, or using a computer, or mobile device in bed
A friend or loved one passing away
Stress, anxiety, and depression

Causes of insomnia

Diagnosis

There is no test to specifically diagnose insomnia, so your doctor will look for a few key symptoms in order to make the diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history as well as your sleep history; and conduct a physical exam. If the cause of your insomnia is unclear to your doctor, they may suggest that you to keep a sleep diary for a couple of weeks. If your doctor thinks you might have a specific sleep disorder, they may refer you to a sleep specialist.