Types of Insomnia

Insomnia is a term used broadly to define "difficulty with sleeping." Insomnia can take many forms and may be characterized by one primary problem, but most likely it presents itself as some combination of factors that include trouble falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, waking up too early, and not feeling rested when you wake up.

Experts categorize insomnia both by the duration and severity of symptoms, and by its association with other disorders. The types of insomnia characterized this way are known as Primary and Co-morbid insomnia. The types of insomnia based on the duration and severity of symptoms are transient, short-term and chronic insomnia.

Primary insomnia

Primary insomnia is defined as having sleep problems that are not related to another health issue.

Co-morbid insomnia

Co-morbid insomnia involves sleep problems that are associated with other medical problems, and is the most common. More than eight out of ten people who suffer with insomnia are believed to have this type. Examples of medical problems that are commonly associated with insomnia are:

• Illnesses, such as arthritis, cancer, heartburn, heart and lung diseases
• Pain, anxiety, and depression
• A substance you may be using, such as alcohol, caffeine, or tobacco
• Prescription or over-the-counter medications
• Another sleep disorder, such as restless legs syndrome or sleep apnea
• A poor sleep environment or a change in sleep routine

Transient insomnia

Transient insomnia lasts fewer than four weeks. It is often caused by jet lag, temporary stress, excitement, illness, or a change in one's sleep schedule.

Short-term insomnia

Short-term insomnia lasts for a period of four weeks to six months. It often results from more prolonged stress or worries, such as financial troubles, the death of a loved one, a job change, or a divorce. If not addressed, short-term insomnia may escalate into a chronic problem.

Chronic insomnia

Chronic insomnia can occur every night, most nights, or several nights each month. Chronic insomnia is often caused by a medical problem; treating the underlying problem may alleviate the insomnia. Chronic sleeplessness may also be caused by bad sleep habits.

Next: Sleep Disorders