There are 2 types of insomnia:
- Primary insomnia is not a symptom or side-effect of another medical condition. It is its own disorder. It may be life-long or triggered by travel, shift work, stressful life events, or other factors that disrupt your sleep routine. Primary insomnia may end once the issue is resolved, or can last for years. Some people tend to be prone to primary insomnia.
- Secondary insomnia has an underlying cause, so it’s a symptom or side-effect of something else. It is the most common type. Secondary insomnia may have a medical cause, such as:
- Depression or anxiety
- Chronic pain such as from fibromyalgia, migraine, or arthritis
- Gastrointestinal problems such as heartburn
- Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome
- Stroke
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Menopause
Secondary insomnia also can result from:
- Some medicines, such as those that treat asthma, heart problems, allergies, and colds
- Caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol
- Poor sleep environment (such as too much light or noise, or a bed partner who snores)
Secondary insomnia often goes away once the underlying cause is treated, but may become a primary insomnia.
Some people with primary or secondary insomnia form habits to deal with the lack of sleep, such as worrying about sleep or going to bed too early. These habits can make insomnia worse or last longer.
Source: The Office on Women’s Health in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health