Insomnia
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects the quality and duration of sleep, leading to difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Left untreated, insomnia can impact daily functioning, increase the risk of chronic health conditions, and diminish quality of life.
Symptoms of Insomnia
- Difficulty falling asleep at night
- Waking up frequently during the night
- Waking up too early
- Feeling tired upon waking
- Daytime fatigue, irritability, or mood disturbances
- Reduced concentration and productivity
Causes and Risk Factors
Insomnia can be caused by various factors, including:
- Stress and Anxiety: Daily stressors, traumatic events, or chronic anxiety can disrupt sleep.
- Lifestyle Habits: Irregular sleep schedules, screen time before bed, and lack of exercise may contribute.
- Medical Conditions: Chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, or respiratory problems can impact sleep quality.
- Medications: Certain medications for asthma, depression, or high blood pressure can interfere with sleep.
- Age and Hormonal Changes: Older adults and women experiencing hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause may face increased risks.
Our Approach to Insomnia Care
CHRISTUS Health offers comprehensive, patient-centered insomnia care. Our team of sleep specialists, psychologists, and healthcare providers work together to deliver customized care plans, helping patients achieve restful sleep and improve their quality of life.
Diagnostic Services
We start with a thorough evaluation, including:
- Sleep History Assessment: Detailed discussion on sleep patterns, lifestyle, and medical history.
- Sleep Diary: Patients may be asked to keep a diary documenting sleep habits over one to two weeks.
- Polysomnography (Sleep Study): For more complex cases, an overnight sleep study may be conducted to monitor brain waves, heart rate, breathing, and body movements.
- Home Sleep Testing: In cases where it’s safe to do so, we provide sleep testing equipment patients can use at home to record sleep data.