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Insomnia (trouble falling asleep or staying asleep) is a common problem. It can cause daytime tiredness and sleepiness and difficulty paying attention at school or being alert at work. Insomnia affects people of all ages. Insomnia can be transient (short-term) and related to a specific condition like stress or travel, or it can be a chronic (long-term) problem that persists for many months. The June 28, 2006, issue of JAMA includes an article about treatment of chronic insomnia in older adults. This Patient Page is based on one previously published in the May 21, 2003, issue of JAMA.

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF INSOMNIA

• Persistent stress
  
• Relationship problems
  
• Use of stimulants such as caffeine, cocaine, and some diet drugs
  
• Alcohol consumption
  
• Shift work or keeping erratic hours
  
• Inactive lifestyle
  
• Environmental factors like noise and light
  
• Depression or anxiety disorders
  
• Medical problems including sleep apnea (waking up frequently during the night, severe snoring, and brief periods . . . [Full Text of this Article]