What causes insomnia?

If you regularly wake up tired and frustrated after another night of poor quality sleep, you are not alone. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 1 in 3 American adults do not get the sleep they need. Whether your lack of quality sleep is due to obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, or another sleep disorder, we may be able to help. 

While sleep disruptions can be caused by stress, environment, and a variety of other factors, sleep disorders are the hidden cause for many sleeping problems. At Sleep Easy Dentistry, we regularly treat patients across San Antonio, Texas, for sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea. However, we work with many patients who experience additional sleep disorders like insomnia. Today, we want to talk about some of the causes of insomnia and discuss the link between insomnia and sleep apnea.

What Causes Insomnia?

Surveys estimate that around 25% of Americans experience occasional insomnia. The causes of insomnia run the gamut from medical conditions and biological factors to poor sleep habits and certain substances. If you practice good sleep hygiene yet still regularly experience insomnia, you may have a medical condition that causes insomnia. Medical conditions like allergies, asthma, and arthritis are all linked to insomnia, as are mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

Is There a Link Between Insomnia and Other Sleep Disorders?
Sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder linked with drops in oxygen levels and interrupted breathing throughout the night, may be linked to insomnia. In fact, many of our patients that experience sleep apnea also report experiencing insomnia. Restless leg syndrome, a neurological condition that makes patients feel an uncomfortable sensation that requires them to move their legs, is also linked to insomnia.

While occasional insomnia may not require medical attention, chronic insomnia may be a symptom of a more serious condition like sleep apnea. Dr. Osborne and our team will work together to determine if you're a good candidate for one of our custom-created oral appliances that can help you breathe easier while you sleep. If you believe you or a loved one may be experiencing sleep apnea, call our office today to schedule your free consultation!