About 10% of adults in the U.S. suffer from chronic insomnia, which is a debilitating condition that is characterized by: difficulty falling asleep at night, frequently waking up in the middle of the night and having problems falling back asleep, and routinely waking up significantly earlier than desired or planned. Generally, chronic insomnia refers to situations where insomnia continues for at least three weeks, and acute insomnia refers to shorter durations. Dr. Avi Weisfogel notes that many people fluctuate between bouts of acute and chronic insomnia. He also adds that the condition may temporarily alleviate for weeks or months at a stretch before returning.
If you know or believe that you are suffering from one of these or any other sleep disorders, then speak with your primary care physician. A growing number of dentists are also offering their patients sleep apnea assessments. Adds Dr. Avi Weisfogel: it is a mistake for people to assume that sleep disorders correct themselves over time, or that poor quality sleep is something that they must learn to live with and accept. Neither of these are true. The problem is serious, and help is available. Seek someone with the experience and background possessed by Dr. Avi Weisfogel.