Insomnia
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Dr. Sambunaris & Associates
Psychiatrist & Wellness Specialist located in Alpharetta, GA
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that makes it difficult for you to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. If you spend most nights tossing and turning, you aren’t alone. Studies show that 33% of American adults get less than seven hours of sleep each night. At Dr. Sambunaris & Associates in Alpharetta, Georgia, psychiatrist Angelo Sambunaris, MD, offers effective solutions to treat chronic insomnia. To start getting the rest you need, call or use the online booking tool to make an appointment today.
Insomnia Q & A
What is insomnia?
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder marked by trouble falling and/or staying asleep. You might fall asleep and wake up a few hours later or you might wake up dozens of times throughout the night.
Insomnia is either chronic (ongoing) or acute (coming on suddenly). Acute insomnia appears for a short time and is usually associated with a stressful event or anxiety. Chronic insomnia describes waking up at least three times a week during the night for three consecutive months.
What causes insomnia to develop?
The four main culprits that contribute to chronic insomnia are:
Prescription medications
Some prescription medications for high blood pressure, allergies, and depression can cause insomnia. Taking any type of prescription drug for a long period of time increases your risk of insomnia.
Poor sleep hygiene
Research suggests men and women who work night shifts or rotating schedules are more likely to have insomnia. If at all possible, try and go to bed at the same time every night.
It’s also recommended that you avoid taking long naps or sleeping in the afternoons.
Certain medical conditions
Ailments like depression, chronic pain, anxiety, and arthritis can make it difficult to get a restful night’s sleep.Conditions like obstructive sleep apnea — a serious form of snoring — directly affect your sleep habits.
Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes the soft tissue at the back of your throat to relax during sleep. This blocks your airflow causing you to wake up throughout the night.
Environmental factors
Consuming food, beverages, and substances like tobacco or coffee prior to bed can affect your sleep patterns. For example, the nicotine found in cigarettes makes your heart race as does caffeine.
Feelings of stress and anxiety can also cause chronic insomnia. In fact, insomnia often exists alongside other disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
How is insomnia treated?
As a psychiatrist and brain wellness specialist, Dr. Sambunaris takes a holistic approach to insomnia treatment.
First, he does a thorough physical exam to determine the underlying cause of your insomnia. He uses the results to tailor a custom treatment plan that helps you to better manage your sleep.
If lifestyle changes like diet and exercise aren’t able to improve the quality of your sleep, Dr. Sambunaris can prescribe medications or other kinds of therapy.
Book an appointment today by calling Dr. Sambunaris & Associates or use the online scheduling tool.
