We can differentiate between acute insomnia and chronic insomnia. Likewise, between insomnia of conciliation and insomnia of maintenance.
Each type has a different study and treatment. We must also consider that not all people have the same sleep needs, but in general, we consider chronic insomnia when there is difficulty sleeping more than 3 days a week for at least 3 months.
What are the most typical symptoms?
The symptoms can be diverse:
- Lack of attention
- Memory problems
- Tiredness and physical exhaustion
- Emotional and behavioral problems
- Aggressiveness
- Hyperactivity
What can cause insomnia?
Likewise, the causes can be very diverse:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Organic problems: sleep apnea or airway resistance.
- Metabolic problems with vitamin or certain mineral deficiencies
- Endocrine problems
- Liver metabolism disorders
- Medications
- Toxics
- Primary problems such as alterations of REM and non-REM sleep phases.
Are there people with a greater predisposition to insomnia?
Yes, above all, it is more frequent as we get older, because sleep is less organized and less restful. Also people who take a lot of medication and also those with a greater emotional and psychological component in their personality. We cannot forget chronic stress.
What treatments are available for insomnia?
It depends on the cause. From pharmacological treatments to others such as neurofeedback, cranial osteopathy, relaxation techniques and psychology, treatment with oxygen therapy or even surgery in certain cases of orofacial anatomical alterations. Above all, it is necessary to target treatment to the cause of the problem and in a personalized manner.