A Good Night’s Sleep

By Kay E. Case, M.D., FACOG, Board Certified Physician & Surgeon

A good night’s sleep can be the key to a great day! Insomnia can be transient or chronic- causes can be simple to complex. Up to 10% of the adult population suffers from chronic insomnia. Those most affected are elderly women, shift workers and those with other medical or psychiatric problems.

Transient insomnia is usually triggered by precipitating factors such as stress, environment and schedule changes. Once the stressor is resolved, the sleep pattern usually returns to normal.
For chronic insomnia, comorbid conditions are often present – obstructive sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome are two common. A sleep clinic can test for these problems.

People having sleep difficulties often compensate in ways that compound the problem including daytime stimulant use, evening alcohol to induce sleep, and napping. Anxiety over insomnia can exacerbate the problem.
Multiple treatment modalities exist for insomnia. Eliminating other medical factors and practicing good sleep hygiene are first line. Medications may be useful, especially for transient insomnia. Cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques and hypnosis may be required to reach a restful night of sleep.

The providers at Women’s Health Care can help sort through the causes of insomnia and get you on the way to a great night’s sleep again. Please call 503-435-2020 to schedule an appointment.

Information Provided / Fee Paid By
Women's Health Care
www.macwhc.com
503-435-2020