Our Services / Insomnia

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that makes getting or falling asleep difficult. It can diminish your quality of life by causing daytime fatigue and other unpleasant or severe symptoms. At the first sign of ongoing sleeping problems, see Dr. Lara for an evaluation. 

What are the symptoms of insomnia?

Insomnia can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Daytime tiredness
• Difficulty staying or falling asleep
• Waking up too early 
• Not feeling well-rested
• Irritability
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Problems remembering things
• Difficulty paying attention 
• Ongoing worry about sleep
• Increases in accidents or work errors

Insomnia can negatively affect your physical and mental health, as well as your overall quality of life. For example, you might have poor work or school performance or a slowed reaction time while driving.  

You also have a higher risk of substance abuse disorder, high blood pressure, and other medical problems with insomnia.

What are the risk factors for insomnia?

While anyone can experience insomnia, common causes and risk factors include:

• Fluctuating sleep schedules
• Ongoing or severe stress
• Eating large meals late at night
• Poor sleep habits
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Some medications
• Certain medical conditions
• Sleep apnea
• Nicotine
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Family history of insomnia 
• Sleep apnea 
• Physical inactivity
• Pain

Insomnia is most common in women and adults over 60. Adopting healthy habits is the best way to reduce your chance of developing it. 

How does my provider diagnose insomnia?

Dr. Lara diagnoses insomnia after reviewing your symptoms and medical history. He asks about your lifestyle, sleeping habits, and medication regimen. You might also need a sleep study, blood tests, or other diagnostic tests that allow Dr. Lara to develop a treatment plan.

How is insomnia treated?

To reduce insomnia and its symptoms, Dr. Lara could recommend:

Healthy habits

Ways to improve sleep quality include setting a regular bedtime, keeping stress levels low, and eating nutritious foods. Get regular exercise, maintain an ideal body weight, and avoid alcohol, smoking, caffeine, screen time, and large meals before bed. Try relaxation techniques and don’t take naps late in the day.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy with Dr. Lara teaches you ways to reduce stress, relax, improve nighttime breathing, and get a better night’s rest. 

Medication management

Dr. Lara might recommend taking medications or dietary supplements to help you get a better night’s sleep.

Don’t settle for poor-quality sleep associated with insomnia when help is within reach. Call Michael Lara, MD, to schedule an appointment or book one online today.