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Causes of Insomnia
Insomnia can originate by any of a number of factors such as physical illness, a stress-filled lifestyle, excessive caffeine consumption, or chronic pain. It may simply be the result of poor sleeping habits, such as napping during the day and going to bed at irregular hours. Insomnia can often be linked to alcohol or drug abuse and to misuse of certain medications.
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Causes of Insomnia - Summary
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Sleep-Onset Insomnia
Anxiety or tension
Environmental change
Emotional arousal
Fear of insomnia
Phobia of sleep
Disruptive environment
Pain or discomfort
Caffeine
Alcohol
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Sleep-Maintenance Insomnia
Depression
Environmental change
Nocturnal myoclonus
Hypoglycemia
Parasomnias such as sleep apnea, restless-legs syndrome, etc.
Pain or discomfort Drugs
Alcohol
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Psychological factors
Psychological factors account for about half of all insomnias. Numerous mental and emotional factors can precipitate sleep disorders, especially insomnia. These include grief, depression, anxiety, fear, and excitement.
Anxiety and depression are two common causes of insomnia. If the insomnia is simply due to a short-term reaction to a situation in one's life, the insomnia will normally disappear as soon as the situation changes. It is rare to see someone who has a severe case of insomnia due to purely emotional factors.
Sleep problems are usually a biochemical problem. Biochemical breakdown can take place in many ways. For example, if your digestive system is stressed and unable to digest protein, the amino acids which affect neurotransmission will not be available to your brain. You can become ill emotionally without having anything emotionally stressful going on in your life.
Vulnerability to insomnia
Some people are more likely than others to experience insomnia during times of stress.
Persistent stress
Stress plays a pivotal role in insomnia. Causes of stress such as a troubled marriage, a chronically ill child, or an unrewarding career can contribute to poor sleep.
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