Patient Groups

Patient Groups

Elderly

It is estimated that 50% of the elderly experience insomnia. It is unknown whether or not this is an effect of aging or whether it is primarily due to illness, various medications taken by the elderly and lower levels of activity.

Women

Women are at a higher risk for insomnia than men with about 40% of women reporting insomnia versus 30% of men. Menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger insomnia in women. Because some sleep medications can harm the unborn child, it is important for all pregnant women to consult their health care providers before taking any sleep medication.

Adolescents

Teenagers need, on average, 9 hours of sleep daily. However late night social activities, homework, and part time jobs are often the cause of teens cutting sleep time back to about six hours per night. Regularly ignoring the body's demand for sleep and sleeping at various times rather than establishing a routine can result in periods of insomnia.