Sleep disorders may actually precipitate certain medical and physical illnesses. Sleepless nights result in daytime napping and fatigue, which interfere with quality of life. Disturbed sleep involving nocturnal awakening and disoriented wandering is among the most frequently cited causes of institutionalization in the elderly. Now that you know insomnia is nothing to ignore, the following self-help resources will tell you where to turn. The toll-free telephone hotline, which is open 24 hours a day, is sponsored by Searle pharmaceuticals.
Stress is the most common cause of short-term insomnia.
Conditioned insomnia is the most common cause of chronic insomnia. For short-term insomnia, sleep medications usually are only needed for up to two weeks. Medication combined with behavioral therapy is the most effective way to treat short-term insomnia. David Demko reports on lifestyle issues and trends in Aging America. Click here to return to Lifestyle Columns menu page.