Difficulty Sleeping

Difficulty sleeping is a common problem that affects us all at one point or another.

What Is the Circadian Rhythm?

Circadian rhythms are the body’s natural processes for changes that occur physically, mentally, and behaviorally.

Young woman lying in bed with arm resting on forehead.

Maria Korneeva / Getty Images

These rhythms respond to exposure to light and darkness.

Your genes and cues from your environment can impact your body’s circadian rhythm.

In addition to other causes, several medications can impact sleep quality and your ability to get enough sleep.

If an undiagnosed condition or issue is suspected, you may also undergo tests to rule those out.

There are several tests that can help determine the root cause of sleep difficulties and disorders.

Your sleep specialist will give you certain devices to use while you sleep to take the necessary measurements.

Regularly experiencing them may indicate chronic sleep difficulties or a sleep disorder.

Common sleep disorders include insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy.

Speaking with a healthcare provider can help you investigate the cause and appropriate treatment for sleep difficulty symptoms.

Sleep is critical to your overall well-being and daily functioning.

Not addressing chronic sleep difficulties can lead to other health issues.

There are many potential causes for having difficulty sleeping.

Some people experience sleep difficulties occasionally.

Others regularly have trouble getting to sleep or getting good quality sleep.

It may depend on the severity of your sleep difficulties.

It often results in not feeling rested when you wake up due to not getting enough quality sleep.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About sleep.

National Institute of General Medical Sciences.Circadian rhythms.

HelpGuide.org.Medical causes of sleep problems.

Sleep Foundation.How does blue light affect sleep?

Johns Hopkins Medicine.Sleep tests and treatments.