How can I relieve my insomnia so that I can sleep better at night?

This question was asked in Sherman Oaks, California on 07/12/2012.
I have been suffering from insomnia on and off throughout my life, recently it has gotten so bad that I am sleep deprived constantly. I need help in knowing how to treat it with or without medicine. I would like to talk to someone that can help me figure out how to live a life that is conducive of good sleeping habits.

Doctors Answers (3)

J. Douglas Hudson, MD, DABSM
Answered on: 7/16/2012

Insomnia is defined as the inability to sleep despite all external factors being conducive to sleep. This means normal temperature, lighting, noise, comfortable bedding, no pain, etc. You should see a sleep specialist to sort out all the issues and set up a plan for treatment. They can help with the good sleep habits to which you refer. If you have had insomnia for your life it may take some time to address all the issues.

Richard J. Schumann Jr., MD
Answered on: 7/16/2012

If this is a life long problem then you are long overdue for a referral to sleep specialist. Try and get your primary MD to refer you to one. Keep a sleep log of what you nighttime and daytime sleep looks like so for several weeks prior to your appointment so they can make some recommendations such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and further suggestion for your sleep hygiene.

Syed Nabi, M.D.
Answered on: 7/13/2012

Please see a sleep physician in your area. They are trained to diagnose and treat most sleep disorders.