Learn More: Sleep
Insomnia Causes
Take the RealAge Sleep Assessment for personalized sleep advice.
Insomnia falls into two categories: acute and chronic.
Acute insomnia (also called transient, situational, or adjustment insomnia) is caused by temporary events or circumstances that usually resolve within a few weeks on their own. These may include any of the following:
- Temporary noise disturbance, such as that caused by a jackhammer, lawn mower, or crying baby
- Short-term pain, such as a tender throat or sore muscles
- Temporary anxiety, such as short-term work, family, or financial worries
- Jet lag
Chronic insomnia persists for at least a month and usually requires treatment. The condition may be due to any of the following:
- Underlying mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety
- Chronic stress
- Chronic illness
- Long-term use of sleeping pills or alcohol
- Aging
- Shift work
- Medical problems, such as chronic pain or overactive bladder
- Primary sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome
Is an overactive bladder interfering with your sleep? Take the RealAge Overactive Bladder Health Assessment.
