Insomnia is a sleep disorder that is characterized by difficulty falling and/or staying asleep. It can occur at any age, but it is most likely to occur as we age. Symptoms may include difficulty falling asleep, daytime sleepiness, frequent awakenings during the night, difficulty falling back to sleep, early morning awakenings, feeling tired upon waking, irritability, fatigue, depression, anxiety, difficulty with concentration and memory and persistent worrying about sleep.

Psychological conditions that can cause insomnia include depression, anxiety, panic disorder, chronic stress, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Medications that can cause insomnia include antidepressants, cold and flu medications that contain alcohol; pain relievers that contain caffeine (Midol, Excedrin), diuretics, corticosteroids, thyroid hormone, and high blood pressure medications. Medical conditions that can cause insomnia include sleep disorders, adrenal gland dysfunction, pain, asthma, food and environmental allergies, Parkinson’s disease, hyperthyroidism, acid reflux, and kidney disorders.