Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
People with insomnia have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking up often throughout the night and having trouble going back to sleep
- Waking up too early in the morning
- Feeling tired after sleeping
If you think you have insomnia, talk to your doctor or psychiatrist. An evaluation may include a physical exam, a medical history, and a sleep history. You may be asked to keep a sleep diary for a week or two, keeping track of your sleep patterns and how you feel during the day. In some cases, you may be referred to a sleep center for special tests.