Insomnia involves problems falling asleep or staying asleep, frequently resulting in sleep deprivation. Inadequate sleep adversely affects nervous system function and may contribute to decreased immune function. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute reports that 80 percent of insomnia occurs due to a secondary biological cause, including medications and a variety of medical conditions. Determining the underlying cause of insomnia provides an opportunity for intervention and resolution of this distressing symptom.
Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless legs syndrome is a nervous system condition in which sensations in the legs provoke an overwhelming urge to move. The sensations typically occur deep within the legs, and may include creeping, itching, burning, tingling, aching or other types of pain. Leg movement temporarily relieves the sensations. Restless legs syndrome symptoms typically occur with greatest frequency when a person lies down to fall asleep. The unrelenting urge to move the legs interferes with the ability to fall asleep and remain asleep. Daytime sleepiness results, often interfering with job performance, participation in recreational activities, and relationships. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke notes that the severity of restless legs syndrome varies; some people experience symptoms only occasionally, while others face the problem nightly. Treatment for restless legs syndrome involves addressing contributing factors that may aggravate the condition, such as anemia or poorly controlled diabetes. Exercise, massage, heat and other interventions may prove useful in alleviating symptoms. For those severely affected by restless legs syndrome, medications may provide the best option for symptom control.
Menopause
Menopause often causes insomnia, even among women who never had insomnia before. In an article on menopause and sleep published online by the National Sleep Foundation, Dr. Joyce Walsleben relates that decreased production of female hormones may cause difficulty falling asleep. In addition,, hot flashes occurring during the night usually cause repeated awakenings, significantly reducing total sleep time. Women with significant menopause-associated sleep disturbances may opt for short-term hormone replacement therapy.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition wherein a backwash of stomach acid ascends into the lower end of the esophagus--the tubular connection between the throat and stomach. Stomach acid irritates the esophageal lining, often causing symptoms such as burning pain in the upper abdomen, behind the breastbone or in the throat. Symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease often prove worst when a person lies down, as the position facilitates stomach acid backflow into the esophagus. The associated pain may interfere with sleep. Management of the disorder with dietary changes; lifestyle changes, such as not eating close to bedtime; and medication to reduce production of stomach acid can minimize or alleviate pain, leading to resolution of reflux-related insomnia.
References
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: Insomnia
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Understanding Sleep
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Restless Legs Syndrome
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: What is Restless Legs Syndrome?
- National Sleep Foundation: Menopause and Insomnia
