When Sleepless Nights Become Insomnia: Signs You Should See a Doctor

Having a bad night of sleep is common and affects almost everyone at some point. Stress, travel, and changes in your usual routine can all interfere with your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. 

But when sleepless nights become a regular occurrence that affects your mood, energy, and ability to think clearly, consider reaching out for help.

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that many people dismiss as a normal part of life. Understanding the difference between occasional sleeplessness and true insomnia can help you take the right steps toward better sleep.

At Respacare in Bridgewater, New Jersey, our sleep medicine experts, Dr. Nehal Mehta and Dr. Prashant Patel, explain what insomnia is, the warning signs to watch for, and when it’s time to seek expert help.

Sleeplessness vs. insomnia

Sleep is essential for overall health, giving your body time to recover from the day and get ready for the next. The quality and duration of your sleep play a critical role in your physical and mental well-being. 

Sleeplessness generally refers to not getting enough quality sleep. Insomnia, on the other hand, is a diagnosable sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting up too early. 

While sleeplessness is a symptom of insomnia, it doesn’t tell the whole story. Insomnia affects the quality and quantity of your sleep, leaving you feeling unrested and drained.

When insomnia becomes a problem

Most people experience short-term insomnia, which lasts a few nights or weeks and is often triggered by stress or temporary changes in routine.

Insomnia becomes a problem when your sleep difficulties occur more than three nights a week for three or more months. Chronic insomnia affects your body’s ability to recover and reset, increasing your risk of health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. 

If ongoing sleeplessness is affecting your daily routine, then your insomnia may be a more serious medical concern. 

Potential causes of insomnia

Stress can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Changes in routine, travel, and lack of exercise can also interfere with sleep. But lifestyle habits aren’t the only contributors. 

Underlying medical conditions may cause or worsen insomnia, including: 

• Chronic pain conditions
• Acid reflux
• Depression and anxiety
• Circadian rhythm disorders
• Sleep apnea

Certain medications, such as stimulants and beta blockers, may also disrupt sleep. Genetics can play a role as well. 

No matter the cause, effective treatment can help restore healthy sleep.

Signs you need expert help

When your sleepless nights lead to excessive daytime sleepiness, trouble concentrating, or safety concerns, it’s time to seek professional help. As sleep medicine experts, we perform thorough evaluations to find the cause of your insomnia and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Treatment options may include:

• A personalized sleep routine
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia
• Sleep restriction therapy
• Medications

Developing lifelong habits that support sleep is one of the most effective ways to treat and prevent insomnia. This means regular exercise, healthy stress management, and avoiding stimulants too close to bedtime.

Insomnia is common, but it isn’t normal. If your sleep difficulties are lasting longer than expected or affecting your quality of life, we can help. 

Call our office today or click the book online button to schedule your consultation.