Most cases of sleep disorder go undiagnosed as we battle to cope on our own. Insomnia can be investigated to determine its cause.

If there is a specific physical or pyschological cause, it can be treated.

Evaluating your sleep

Your doctor will most likely take details of your medical history; your satisfaction with your sleep; the extent of fatigue intrusion into the day's activities; and whether your partner has complained of restlessness throughout the night.

From the doctor's evaluation, if there is cause for greater investigation a more detailed history may be taken looking at the onset, severity, and duration of the condition. 

You will most likely be asked about your emotional state (psychiatric history and life events that may be troubling you); physical health, as well as eating habits and the medicines you are taking.  From this, the doctor will build up the picture of the probable cause of your inability to sleep.

Sleep diary

To evaluate fully your sleep schedule, you may be asked to keep a sleep diary. 

We have prepared a Sleep diary form that you can print.

The results are analysed using established sleep classifications to determine sleep pattern anomalies.

Addressing the possible cause of the insomnia is the key to effective treatment.  The most appropriate ways to help relieve the condition can then be ascertained.  There are, however, many cases of insomnia when the cause is never determined, and self-help treatment is the focus.

02/06/2009