🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 110 (from laksa002)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa110.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia","crawl_time":1768425387,"first_indexed_time":1669098314,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,medicalnewstoday!www,\/articles\/sudden-insomnia s443","src_root_hash":"5853625527623639710","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Sudden insomnia: What causes it, treatment, and more","meta_descriptions":["Insomnia is a common sleep disorder, there are many reasons a person can suddenly develop this condition. Learn more here."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Sudden insomnia is usually a form of acute insomnia, which means that insomnia appears quickly, then lasts for a short time.\nPeople with insomnia\ntypically\nhave trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep, or even getting good quality sleep. A lack of sleep can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities.\nSudden insomnia is one of the most common sleep problems. According to\n2020 research\n, nearly a third of the population reports new or acute insomnia yearly. Some cases of sudden insomnia last for a long time and may lead to a more chronic condition.\nNo single factor\nexplains all cases of sudden insomnia. A combination of environment, genetics, health, stress, lifestyle, and other factors may play a role.\nRead on to learn more about sudden insomnia, including its causes, symptoms, and when a person should seek medical attention.\nSudden insomnia\nmeans\nthat symptoms of insomnia appear abruptly rather than gradually. It is often acute or short-term. Short-term insomnia can last between a few days to weeks.\nSudden insomnia is a symptom and not a diagnosis. While there are many different causes, some require medical treatment, but others — such as poor sleep habits — may respond well to lifestyle changes.\nSome common signs and symptoms of sudden insomnia include:\ndifficulty falling asleep\nfrequent nighttime waking\ndifficulty falling back asleep after waking\nextreme daytime\ntiredness\nchanges in sleep patterns, such as having more nightmares or not dreaming\nInsomnia does not necessarily mean that a person is sick or in poor health, but it can be an early symptom of some health problems, such as sleep apnea.\nThe fact that insomnia is sudden does not necessarily mean anything about its cause. Sudden and chronic insomnia have similar causes.\nResearch\ntypically finds that insomnia is a state of hyperarousal. This means that the brain and body are more active than they should be. Many different factors can cause this phenomenon.\nPeople with insomnia tend to have:\nhigher levels of nighttime cortisol, a type of hormone\nhigher levels of blood sugar, or glucose\nhigher nighttime body temperatures\nSome of the more common causes include:\nHormonal changes\nHormones are the body’s chemical messengers. Changes in hormone levels, either from normal life changes like pregnancy and\nmenopause\n, or disorders that affect the thyroid and other hormone-secreting organs, may cause sleep issues.\nFor example,\nhyperthyroidism\nmay\ncause\na person to feel very awake and alert. A person may experience a racing heart of anxiety that further intensifies feelings of restlessness and insomnia.\nLifestyle factors\nNumerous lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of insomnia. Insomnia may appear suddenly when a person’s lifestyle changes. It can also happen gradually, or suddenly appear even after a person has had an unhealthy lifestyle for a long time.\nSome lifestyle factors\ninclude\n:\ndrinking too much caffeine, especially before bed\ndrinking too much alcohol\nexercising right before bed\nwatching TV or playing with a phone in bed\nthinking about or doing stressful things right before bed\nan irregular sleep schedule\nshift work that disrupts a person’s natural circadian rhythm\nSleep environment\nA person’s sleep environment can make it more difficult to sleep.\nLoud noises, an uncomfortable bed, a room that is too hot, or a new sleeping environment may contribute to sleep issues. Also, a sudden change in a person’s sleep environment\ncan trigger sudden insomnia\n.\nSleep disorders\nNumerous sleep disorders can cause insomnia, and sometimes it comes on suddenly.\nSome examples include\n:\nsleep apnea\n, which may cause a person to repeatedly wake because of breathing difficulties\nrestless leg syndrome\n, which can cause a person to repeatedly move their legs to relieve unusual and painful sensations\ncircadian rhythm disorders\n, which disrupt the body’s usual sleep-wake cycle\nMental health\nAnxiety from\na short-term stressor such as a job loss or moving to a new home may cause sudden insomnia. Chronic\nmental health\nissues such as depression may also lead to sleep difficulties.\nPhysical conditions\nA number of physical health conditions may contribute to insomnia by making sleep uncomfortable or painful. For example, chronic pain,\nmigraine\n, or a broken bone may all lead to insomnia.\nTreating the underlying physical cause may help.\nPregnancy often causes insomnia and sleep difficulties.\nA 2021 meta-analysis\nreports the overall prevalence of insomnia during pregnancy to be 38.2%, but other sources suggest the figure is much higher.\nnausea and vomiting from\nmorning sickness\na rise in progesterone, which causes symptoms such as\nsleep apnea\nand daytime sleepiness, as well as the cycle of excessive napping and more frequent nighttime waking\nback pain\nmore frequent urination\nWhile it is not usually a cause for concern, people should discuss all new pregnancy symptoms with a healthcare professional.\nWhen an underlying medical condition — such as hyperthyroidism — causes sudden insomnia, treatment requires addressing this cause.\nTreatments for unexplained insomnia might\ninclude\n:\nSleep hygiene:\nSleep hygiene means adopting strategies that make sleep easier. This includes using the bed only for sleep or sex, not watching TV or playing with a phone in bed, sleeping in a cool and dark room, and ensuring the bed is comfortable.\nA consistent sleep routine:\nGoing to bed and waking at the same time each day, regardless of how much sleep a person gets can help. If a person cannot fall asleep, they should leave the bed and do something else.\nSleep restriction:\nThis means minimizing or eliminating daytime naps and reducing the total time a person sleeps. This can help a person feel more tired, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.\nPsychotherapy:\nPsychotherapy can ease underlying mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (\nCBT\n-I) and some other insomnia treatments can help a person calm racing thoughts, adopt healthier sleep practices, and manage insomnia.\nWhile sleep medications can help with short-term insomnia, they are potentially addictive. They are not intended for long-term use, so it is important to pursue other treatment strategies while using\nsleeping medication\n.\nInsomnia itself is not a progressive disease. However, it can cause many serious issues, such as:\ndaytime sleepiness that increases the risk of car accidents and injuries\nintense fatigue that leads to depression, stress, or difficulty concentrating\nwork or relationship problems from chronic fatigue and trouble concentrating\nEmerging research also suggests that insomnia may be a risk factor for other diseases.\nFor example,\na 2019 study\ninvestigating cardiovascular disease incidence among half a million adults in China, found that insomnia was a risk factor. However, it is unclear whether insomnia or\nsleep deprivation\ncauses cardiovascular disease, or if the two diseases share similar risk factors or disease pathways.\nSee a doctor if:\nA person develops other symptoms along with insomnia, such as pain or trouble breathing at night.\nA person’s insomnia progressively worsens or does not improve with home treatment.\nA person can only sleep with the use of medication sleep aids.\nA person has mental health issues such as\nanxiety\nor\ndepression\n.\nSudden insomnia can be very frustrating. A person might lie awake at night for hours, unable to sleep, only to feel exhausted the next day. Sudden insomnia is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and it may point to a wide range of issues, from serious health problems to temporary lifestyle inconveniences.\nInsomnia can also undermine relationships, well-being, work, and more.\nThe condition is treatable. People living with insomnia who do not get relief from self-care strategies should see a healthcare professional for additional support.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  ### Health Conditions\n  - [Alzheimer's & Dementia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/alzheimers-and-dementia)\n  - [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/anxiety)\n  - [Asthma & Allergies](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/asthma-and-allergies)\n  - [Atopic Dermatitis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/program\/investigating-atopic-dermatitis)\n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/cancer)\n  - [Cardiovascular Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/cardiovascular-health)\n  - [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/coronavirus?correlationId=2b137d5a-dcfb-464e-9ea6-72c5a54b4e92)\n  - [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/diabetes)\n  - [Endometriosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/endometriosis)\n  - [Environment & Sustainability](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/environment-and-sustainability)\n  - [Exercise & Fitness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/exercise-and-fitness)\n  - [Eye Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/eye-health)\n  - [Headache & Migraine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/headache-and-migraine)\n  - [Health Equity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/health-equity)\n  - [HIV & AIDS](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/hiv-and-aids)\n  - [Human Biology](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/human-biology)\n  - [Leukemia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/leukemia)\n  - [LGBTQIA+](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/LGBTQIA)\n  - [Men's Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/mens-health)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/mental-health)\n  - [Multiple Sclerosis (MS)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/multiple-sclerosis)\n  - [Nutrition](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/nutrition)\n  - [Parkinson's Disease](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/parkinsons-disease)\n  - [Psoriasis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/psoriasis)\n  - [Sexual Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/sexual-health)\n  - [Ulcerative Colitis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/program\/investigating-ulcerative-colitis)\n  - [Women's Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/womens-health)\n- Health Products\n  ### Health Products\n  [All](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews)\n  \n  - [Nutrition & Fitness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/nutrition-and-fitness-products)\n  - [Vitamins & Supplements](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/vitamin-and-supplement-products)\n  - [CBD](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/cbd-products)\n  - [Sleep](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/sleep-products)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/mental-health-services-and-products)\n  - [At-Home Testing](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/at-home-testing-products)\n  - [Men’s Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/mens-health-products)\n  - [Women’s Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/products-and-reviews\/womens-health-products)\n- Discover\n  ### News\n  - [Latest News](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/news)\n  - [Medicare 2026 Costs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/medicare-costs-3-key-changes-in-2026)\n  \n  ### Original Series\n  - [Medical Myths](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/content-series\/medical-myths)\n  - [Honest Nutrition](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/content-series\/honest-nutrition)\n  - [Through My Eyes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/content-series\/through-my-eyes)\n  - [New Normal Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/content-series\/new-normal-health)\n  \n  ### Podcasts\n  [All](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/in-conversation-podcast)\n  \n  - [Artificial sweeteners and brain aging: What we know so far](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/artificial-sweeteners-and-brain-aging-what-we-know-so-far)\n  - [Does the Mediterranean diet hold the key to longevity?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/does-the-mediterranean-diet-hold-the-key-to-longevity)\n  - [AMA: Registered dietitian answers 5 key questions about fiber and weight loss](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-fiber-help-lose-weight-dietitian-answers-5-key-questions)\n  - [Health misinformation and disinformation: How to avoid it](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/health-misinformation-and-disinformation-how-to-avoid-it)\n  - [Brain health, sleep, diet: 3 health resolutions for 2025](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/brain-health-sleep-diet-3-health-resolutions-for-2025)\n  - [5 things everyone should know about menopause](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/5-things-everyone-should-know-about-menopause)\n- Tools\n  ### General Health\n  - [Drugs A-Z](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/drugs)\n  - [Health Hubs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/content-hubs)\n  - [Newsletter](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/newsletter)\n  - [Medicare Plans by State](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/health-medicare-state-coverage)\n  \n  ### Health Tools\n  - [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/connect.medicalnewstoday.com\/)\n  - [BMI Calculators and Charts](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323586)\n  - [Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327077)\n  - [Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/316898)\n  - [Sleep Calculator](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-calculator)\n  \n  ### Quizzes\n  - [RA Myths vs Facts](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/science-fact-or-fiction-separating-ra-myths-from-facts#1)\n  - [Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/managing-blood-sugar-type-2-diabetes-quiz#1)\n  - [Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/complementary-therapies-for-as-quiz#1)\n- Connect\n  ### About Medical News Today\n  - [Who We Are](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about)\n  - [Our Editorial Process](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/process)\n  - [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n  - [Conscious Language](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/conscious-language)\n  \n  ### Find Community\n  - [Bezzy Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.bezzybc.com\/lp\/2\/?verzenio&utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect)\n  - [Bezzy MS](https:\/\/www.bezzyms.com\/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect)\n  - [Bezzy Migraine](https:\/\/www.bezzymigraine.com\/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect)\n  - [Bezzy Psoriasis](https:\/\/www.bezzypsoriasis.com\/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect)\n  ### Follow Us\n\nSubscribe\n\nExplore more in\n\n- Types\n- Treatment\n- Related Conditions\n- Management\n- Home Remedies\n- Stages\n- Prognosis\n- Complications\n- Causes & Risk Factors\n\nInsomnia\n\n#### Related Topics\n- ### Types\n  Types\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Types Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/types-of-insomnia)\n  - [Sudden Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia)\n  - [Rebound Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/rebound-insomnia)\n  - [Idiopathic Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/idiopathic-insomnia)\n- ### Treatment\n  Treatment\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Treatment Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia)\n  - [Treating Anxiety and Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-medication-for-anxiety-and-insomnia)\n  - [Doxepin](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/doxepin-for-insomnia)\n  - [Lunesta (eszopiclone)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-lunesta)\n  - [Belsomra (suvorexant)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-belsomra)\n  - [Ambien and Ambien CR (zolpidem)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-ambien)\n  - [Quviviq (daridorexant)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-quviviq)\n  - [Dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/dora-insomnia-medication)\n  - [CBT-I vs. Medication](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/insomnia-therapy)\n  - [Medications](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/what-is-the-best-prescription-medication-for-sleep)\n  - [Dayvigo (lemborexant)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-dayvigo)\n  - [Sleep Restriction Therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-restriction-therapy)\n- ### Related Conditions\n  Related Conditions\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Related Conditions Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325294)\n  - [Sleep Apnea](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-apnea-insomnia)\n  - [Hyperparathyroidism](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hyperparathyroidism-insomnia)\n  - [Paradoxical Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/paradoxical-insomnia)\n  - [Mental Illness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-insomnia-a-mental-illness)\n  - [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/how-beat-covid-insomnia)\n  - [Painsomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/painsomnia)\n- ### Management\n  Management\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Management Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322928)\n  - [How to Stay Asleep](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-maintenance-insomnia)\n  - [Light Therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/insomnia-light-therapy)\n  - [Exercise](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/exercise-insomnia)\n  - [Best Mattresses for Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-mattresses-for-sleeping-disorders)\n  - [Hypnosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hypnosis-for-insomnia)\n- ### Home Remedies\n  Home Remedies\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Home Remedies Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/home-remedies-for-insomnia)\n  - [Best CBD for Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/cbd-for-insomnia)\n- ### Stages\n  Stages\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Insomnia in the Elderly](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/insomnia-in-the-elderly)\n  - [Insomnia in Early Pregnancy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323475)\n  - [Postpartum Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/postpartum-insomnia)\n- ### Prognosis\n  Prognosis\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [How Long Does Insomnia Last?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/how-long-does-insomnia-last)\n  - [Disability Status](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-insomnia-a-disability)\n- ### Complications\n  Complications\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Effects of 24 Hours of No Sleep](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/324799)\n  - [Stroke](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/chronic-insomnia-may-increase-stroke-risk)\n- ### Causes & Risk Factors\n  Causes & Risk Factors\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Lexapro](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/best-time-to-take-lexapro-to-avoid-insomnia)\n  - [Benzodiazepine Withdrawal](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/benzo-withdrawal)\n  - [Zoloft](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/zoloft-insomnia)\n  - [Menstruation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/period-insomnia)\n  - [Diphenhydramine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-diphenhydramine-cause-insomnia)\n  - [Quitting Smoking](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/quit-smoking-insomnia)\n  - [Female Hormones](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/women-hormones-and-insomnia)\n\n# What to know about sudden insomnia\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Zawn Villines]() —  [Updated on March 27, 2023]()\n\n- [Signs and symptoms](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#signs-and-symptoms)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#causes)\n- [Early pregnancy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#early-pregnancy)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#treatment)\n- [Complications](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#complications)\n- [When to see a doctor](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#when-to-see-a-doctor)\n- [Summary](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sudden-insomnia#summary)\n\nSudden insomnia is usually a form of acute insomnia, which means that insomnia appears quickly, then lasts for a short time.\n\nPeople with insomnia [typically](https:\/\/www.nhlbi.nih.gov\/health\/insomnia) have trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep, or even getting good quality sleep. A lack of sleep can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities.\n\nSudden insomnia is one of the most common sleep problems. According to [2020 research](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/), nearly a third of the population reports new or acute insomnia yearly. Some cases of sudden insomnia last for a long time and may lead to a more chronic condition.\n\n[No single factor](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554516\/) explains all cases of sudden insomnia. A combination of environment, genetics, health, stress, lifestyle, and other factors may play a role.\n\nRead on to learn more about sudden insomnia, including its causes, symptoms, and when a person should seek medical attention.\n\n## [Signs and symptoms]()\n![person sleeping on train](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2022\/11\/sudden_insomnia_GettyImages755760325_Header-1024x575.jpg?w=1155&h=1528)\n\n[Share on Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fsudden-insomnia&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2022%2F11%2Fsudden_insomnia_GettyImages755760325_Header-1024x575.jpg&description=Sudden%20insomnia%3A%20What%20causes%20it%2C%20treatment%2C%20and%20more \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\nMaria Arnaoutaki\/EyeEm\/Getty Images\n\nSudden insomnia [means](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554516\/) that symptoms of insomnia appear abruptly rather than gradually. It is often acute or short-term. Short-term insomnia can last between a few days to weeks.\n\nSudden insomnia is a symptom and not a diagnosis. While there are many different causes, some require medical treatment, but others — such as poor sleep habits — may respond well to lifestyle changes.\n\nSome common signs and symptoms of sudden insomnia include:\n\n- difficulty falling asleep\n- frequent nighttime waking\n- difficulty falling back asleep after waking\n- extreme daytime [tiredness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/248002)\n- changes in sleep patterns, such as having more nightmares or not dreaming\n\nInsomnia does not necessarily mean that a person is sick or in poor health, but it can be an early symptom of some health problems, such as sleep apnea.\n\n## [Causes of sudden insomnia]()\nThe fact that insomnia is sudden does not necessarily mean anything about its cause. Sudden and chronic insomnia have similar causes.\n\n[Research](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/) typically finds that insomnia is a state of hyperarousal. This means that the brain and body are more active than they should be. Many different factors can cause this phenomenon.\n\nPeople with insomnia tend to have:\n\n- higher levels of nighttime cortisol, a type of hormone\n- higher levels of blood sugar, or glucose\n- higher nighttime body temperatures\n\nSome of the more common causes include:\n\n### Hormonal changes\nHormones are the body’s chemical messengers. Changes in hormone levels, either from normal life changes like pregnancy and [menopause](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/155651), or disorders that affect the thyroid and other hormone-secreting organs, may cause sleep issues.\n\nFor example, [hyperthyroidism](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/9153) may [cause](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8423342\/) a person to feel very awake and alert. A person may experience a racing heart of anxiety that further intensifies feelings of restlessness and insomnia.\n\n### Lifestyle factors\nNumerous lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of insomnia. Insomnia may appear suddenly when a person’s lifestyle changes. It can also happen gradually, or suddenly appear even after a person has had an unhealthy lifestyle for a long time.\n\nSome lifestyle factors [include](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554516\/):\n\n- drinking too much caffeine, especially before bed\n- drinking too much alcohol\n- exercising right before bed\n- watching TV or playing with a phone in bed\n- thinking about or doing stressful things right before bed\n- an irregular sleep schedule\n- shift work that disrupts a person’s natural circadian rhythm\n### Sleep environment\nA person’s sleep environment can make it more difficult to sleep.\n\nLoud noises, an uncomfortable bed, a room that is too hot, or a new sleeping environment may contribute to sleep issues. Also, a sudden change in a person’s sleep environment [can trigger sudden insomnia](https:\/\/www.nhlbi.nih.gov\/health\/insomnia).\n\n### Sleep disorders\nNumerous sleep disorders can cause insomnia, and sometimes it comes on suddenly. [Some examples include](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK560720\/):\n\n- **sleep apnea**, which may cause a person to repeatedly wake because of breathing difficulties\n- [**restless leg syndrome**](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/7882), which can cause a person to repeatedly move their legs to relieve unusual and painful sensations\n- **circadian rhythm disorders**, which disrupt the body’s usual sleep-wake cycle\n### Mental health\n[Anxiety from](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554516\/) a short-term stressor such as a job loss or moving to a new home may cause sudden insomnia. Chronic [mental health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/154543) issues such as depression may also lead to sleep difficulties.\n\n### Physical conditions\nA number of physical health conditions may contribute to insomnia by making sleep uncomfortable or painful. For example, chronic pain, [migraine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/148373), or a broken bone may all lead to insomnia.\n\nTreating the underlying physical cause may help.\n\n[Learn more about how doctors diagnose insomnia.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/9155#diagnosis)\n\n## [Sudden insomnia in early pregnancy]()\nPregnancy often causes insomnia and sleep difficulties.\n\n[A 2021 meta-analysis](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/33140514\/) reports the overall prevalence of insomnia during pregnancy to be 38.2%, but other sources suggest the figure is much higher.\n\n[According to an older 2015 paper](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4935047\/), around 66% to 94% of pregnant people report sleep difficulties during pregnancy.\n\nSudden [insomnia during early pregnancy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323475) can happen for [several](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4935047\/) reasons, [including](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5017073\/):\n\n- nausea and vomiting from [morning sickness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/179633)\n- a rise in progesterone, which causes symptoms such as [sleep apnea](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/178633) and daytime sleepiness, as well as the cycle of excessive napping and more frequent nighttime waking\n- [back pain](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/172943)\n- more frequent urination\n\nWhile it is not usually a cause for concern, people should discuss all new pregnancy symptoms with a healthcare professional.\n\n## [Treatment]()\nWhen an underlying medical condition — such as hyperthyroidism — causes sudden insomnia, treatment requires addressing this cause.\n\nTreatments for unexplained insomnia might [include](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554516\/):\n\n- **Sleep hygiene:** Sleep hygiene means adopting strategies that make sleep easier. This includes using the bed only for sleep or sex, not watching TV or playing with a phone in bed, sleeping in a cool and dark room, and ensuring the bed is comfortable.\n- **A consistent sleep routine:** Going to bed and waking at the same time each day, regardless of how much sleep a person gets can help. If a person cannot fall asleep, they should leave the bed and do something else.\n- **Sleep restriction:** This means minimizing or eliminating daytime naps and reducing the total time a person sleeps. This can help a person feel more tired, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.\n- **Psychotherapy:** Psychotherapy can ease underlying mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia ([CBT](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/296579)\\-I) and some other insomnia treatments can help a person calm racing thoughts, adopt healthier sleep practices, and manage insomnia.\n\nWhile sleep medications can help with short-term insomnia, they are potentially addictive. They are not intended for long-term use, so it is important to pursue other treatment strategies while using [sleeping medication](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/what-is-the-best-prescription-medication-for-sleep).\n\n## [Complications]()\nInsomnia itself is not a progressive disease. However, it can cause many serious issues, such as:\n\n- daytime sleepiness that increases the risk of car accidents and injuries\n- intense fatigue that leads to depression, stress, or difficulty concentrating\n- work or relationship problems from chronic fatigue and trouble concentrating\n\nEmerging research also suggests that insomnia may be a risk factor for other diseases.\n\nFor example, [a 2019 study](https:\/\/n.neurology.org\/content\/93\/23\/e2110) investigating cardiovascular disease incidence among half a million adults in China, found that insomnia was a risk factor. However, it is unclear whether insomnia or [sleep deprivation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/307334) causes cardiovascular disease, or if the two diseases share similar risk factors or disease pathways.\n\n## [When to see a doctor]()\nSee a doctor if:\n\n- A person develops other symptoms along with insomnia, such as pain or trouble breathing at night.\n- A person’s insomnia progressively worsens or does not improve with home treatment.\n- A person can only sleep with the use of medication sleep aids.\n- A person has mental health issues such as [anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323454) or [depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/8933).\n\n## [Summary]()\nSudden insomnia can be very frustrating. A person might lie awake at night for hours, unable to sleep, only to feel exhausted the next day. Sudden insomnia is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and it may point to a wide range of issues, from serious health problems to temporary lifestyle inconveniences.\n\nInsomnia can also undermine relationships, well-being, work, and more.\n\nThe condition is treatable. People living with insomnia who do not get relief from self-care strategies should see a healthcare professional for additional support.\n\n- [Public Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/public-health)\n- [Psychology \/ Psychiatry](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/psychology-psychiatry)\n- [Sleep \/ Sleep Disorders \/ Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/sleep)\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/process).\n\n- Green, M. E., *et al.* (2021). Thyroid dysfunction and sleep disorders.   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8423342\/>\n- Hashmi, A. M., e*t al.* (2016). Insomnia during pregnancy: Diagnosis and rational interventions.   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5017073\/>\n- Karna, B., *et al.* (2022). Sleep disorder.   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK560720\/>\n- Kaur, H., *et al*. (2022). Chronic insomnia.   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK526136\/>\n- Momin, R. R., *et al*. (2022). Short term insomnia.   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK554516\/>\n- Reichner, C. A. (2015). Insomnia and sleep deficiency in pregnancy.   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4935047\/>\n- Sedov, I. D., *et al.* (2021). Insomnia symptoms during pregnancy: A meta-analysis \\[Abstract\\].   \n  <https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/33140514\/>\n- Vargas, I., *et al*. (2020). Acute and chronic insomnia: What has time and\/or hyperarousal got to do with it?   \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7071368\/>\n- What is insomnia? (2022).   \n  <https:\/\/www.nhlbi.nih.gov\/health\/insomnia>\n- Zheng, B., *et al.* (2019). Insomnia symptoms and risk of cardiovascular diseases among 0.5 million adults.  \n  <https:\/\/n.neurology.org\/content\/93\/23\/e2110>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Zawn Villines]() —  [Updated on March 27, 2023]()\n\n## Latest news\n- [4 key changes to US diets: Prioritize protein, full-fat dairy, and more](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/4-key-changes-us-dietary-guidelines-prioritize-protein-full-fat-dairy)\n- [Walking, house chores may help lower diabetes, heart disease death risk](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/walking-house-chores-may-help-lower-diabetes-heart-disease-death-risk)\n- [High cholesterol may predict future heart disease risk, even in healthy women](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/high-cholesterol-predict-future-heart-disease-risk-lipoprotein-healthy-women)\n- [Many Brazilians live past 110: What are their secrets?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/many-brazilians-live-past-110-what-are-their-secrets)\n- [Exercise may reduce depression symptoms as effectively as therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/exercise-may-reduce-depression-symptoms-as-effectively-as-therapy)\n\n### Related Coverage\n- [9 home remedies for insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/home-remedies-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Janet Hilbert, MD](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/reviewers)\n  \n  [A person with insomnia can try various techniques to encourage the onset of sleep and improve its quality and duration. Learn more here.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/home-remedies-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/home-remedies-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Worrying about insomnia may do more harm than poor sleep](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/320025?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [The belief that we have insomnia may disrupt physical and emotional health regardless of whether we sleep well or poorly, new research suggests.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/320025?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/320025?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Insomnia and ankylosing spondylitis: What to know](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/insomnia-and-ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Nancy Carteron, M.D., FACR](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/reviewers)\n  \n  [Research indicates that the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can have an effect on sleep quality. Learn more about insomnia and AS here.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/insomnia-and-ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/insomnia-and-ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [The best sleep aids for chronic insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Some medications may help relieve chronic insomnia, but people need to exercise caution when using them over a prolonged period. Learn more here.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/contact-us)\n- [Terms of Use](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/terms-of-use)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/privacy-policy)\n- Privacy Settings\n- [Advertising Policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/ad-policy)\n\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/directory\/a-b)\n- [Health Hubs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/content-hubs)\n- [Medical Affairs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/reviewers)\n- [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/newsletter)\n- [Your Privacy Choices](https:\/\/privacyportal.onetrust.com\/webform\/b45407c6-ee79-4a08-912e-02ce898f9a14\/6a88ff3d-e0ff-44b3-bb05-e8a2a65072fe)\n- © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https:\/\/rvohealth.com\/careers)[Advertise with us](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/advertise?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)\n\nOUR BRANDS\n\n[Healthline](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/)[Medical News Today](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/)[Greatist](https:\/\/greatist.com\/)[Psych Central](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/)[Bezzy](https:\/\/bezzy.com\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)","attrs_readable_markdown":null,"meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

3 months ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	3 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia
Last Crawled	2026-01-14 21:16:27 (3 months ago)
First Indexed	2022-11-22 06:25:14 (3 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Sudden insomnia: What causes it, treatment, and more
Meta Description	Insomnia is a common sleep disorder, there are many reasons a person can suddenly develop this condition. Learn more here.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Sudden insomnia is usually a form of acute insomnia, which means that insomnia appears quickly, then lasts for a short time. People with insomnia typically have trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep, or even getting good quality sleep. A lack of sleep can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities. Sudden insomnia is one of the most common sleep problems. According to 2020 research , nearly a third of the population reports new or acute insomnia yearly. Some cases of sudden insomnia last for a long time and may lead to a more chronic condition. No single factor explains all cases of sudden insomnia. A combination of environment, genetics, health, stress, lifestyle, and other factors may play a role. Read on to learn more about sudden insomnia, including its causes, symptoms, and when a person should seek medical attention. Sudden insomnia means that symptoms of insomnia appear abruptly rather than gradually. It is often acute or short-term. Short-term insomnia can last between a few days to weeks. Sudden insomnia is a symptom and not a diagnosis. While there are many different causes, some require medical treatment, but others — such as poor sleep habits — may respond well to lifestyle changes. Some common signs and symptoms of sudden insomnia include: difficulty falling asleep frequent nighttime waking difficulty falling back asleep after waking extreme daytime tiredness changes in sleep patterns, such as having more nightmares or not dreaming Insomnia does not necessarily mean that a person is sick or in poor health, but it can be an early symptom of some health problems, such as sleep apnea. The fact that insomnia is sudden does not necessarily mean anything about its cause. Sudden and chronic insomnia have similar causes. Research typically finds that insomnia is a state of hyperarousal. This means that the brain and body are more active than they should be. Many different factors can cause this phenomenon. People with insomnia tend to have: higher levels of nighttime cortisol, a type of hormone higher levels of blood sugar, or glucose higher nighttime body temperatures Some of the more common causes include: Hormonal changes Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers. Changes in hormone levels, either from normal life changes like pregnancy and menopause , or disorders that affect the thyroid and other hormone-secreting organs, may cause sleep issues. For example, hyperthyroidism may cause a person to feel very awake and alert. A person may experience a racing heart of anxiety that further intensifies feelings of restlessness and insomnia. Lifestyle factors Numerous lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of insomnia. Insomnia may appear suddenly when a person’s lifestyle changes. It can also happen gradually, or suddenly appear even after a person has had an unhealthy lifestyle for a long time. Some lifestyle factors include : drinking too much caffeine, especially before bed drinking too much alcohol exercising right before bed watching TV or playing with a phone in bed thinking about or doing stressful things right before bed an irregular sleep schedule shift work that disrupts a person’s natural circadian rhythm Sleep environment A person’s sleep environment can make it more difficult to sleep. Loud noises, an uncomfortable bed, a room that is too hot, or a new sleeping environment may contribute to sleep issues. Also, a sudden change in a person’s sleep environment can trigger sudden insomnia . Sleep disorders Numerous sleep disorders can cause insomnia, and sometimes it comes on suddenly. Some examples include : sleep apnea , which may cause a person to repeatedly wake because of breathing difficulties restless leg syndrome , which can cause a person to repeatedly move their legs to relieve unusual and painful sensations circadian rhythm disorders , which disrupt the body’s usual sleep-wake cycle Mental health Anxiety from a short-term stressor such as a job loss or moving to a new home may cause sudden insomnia. Chronic mental health issues such as depression may also lead to sleep difficulties. Physical conditions A number of physical health conditions may contribute to insomnia by making sleep uncomfortable or painful. For example, chronic pain, migraine , or a broken bone may all lead to insomnia. Treating the underlying physical cause may help. Pregnancy often causes insomnia and sleep difficulties. A 2021 meta-analysis reports the overall prevalence of insomnia during pregnancy to be 38.2%, but other sources suggest the figure is much higher. nausea and vomiting from morning sickness a rise in progesterone, which causes symptoms such as sleep apnea and daytime sleepiness, as well as the cycle of excessive napping and more frequent nighttime waking back pain more frequent urination While it is not usually a cause for concern, people should discuss all new pregnancy symptoms with a healthcare professional. When an underlying medical condition — such as hyperthyroidism — causes sudden insomnia, treatment requires addressing this cause. Treatments for unexplained insomnia might include : Sleep hygiene: Sleep hygiene means adopting strategies that make sleep easier. This includes using the bed only for sleep or sex, not watching TV or playing with a phone in bed, sleeping in a cool and dark room, and ensuring the bed is comfortable. A consistent sleep routine: Going to bed and waking at the same time each day, regardless of how much sleep a person gets can help. If a person cannot fall asleep, they should leave the bed and do something else. Sleep restriction: This means minimizing or eliminating daytime naps and reducing the total time a person sleeps. This can help a person feel more tired, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can ease underlying mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia ( CBT -I) and some other insomnia treatments can help a person calm racing thoughts, adopt healthier sleep practices, and manage insomnia. While sleep medications can help with short-term insomnia, they are potentially addictive. They are not intended for long-term use, so it is important to pursue other treatment strategies while using sleeping medication . Insomnia itself is not a progressive disease. However, it can cause many serious issues, such as: daytime sleepiness that increases the risk of car accidents and injuries intense fatigue that leads to depression, stress, or difficulty concentrating work or relationship problems from chronic fatigue and trouble concentrating Emerging research also suggests that insomnia may be a risk factor for other diseases. For example, a 2019 study investigating cardiovascular disease incidence among half a million adults in China, found that insomnia was a risk factor. However, it is unclear whether insomnia or sleep deprivation causes cardiovascular disease, or if the two diseases share similar risk factors or disease pathways. See a doctor if: A person develops other symptoms along with insomnia, such as pain or trouble breathing at night. A person’s insomnia progressively worsens or does not improve with home treatment. A person can only sleep with the use of medication sleep aids. A person has mental health issues such as anxiety or depression . Sudden insomnia can be very frustrating. A person might lie awake at night for hours, unable to sleep, only to feel exhausted the next day. Sudden insomnia is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and it may point to a wide range of issues, from serious health problems to temporary lifestyle inconveniences. Insomnia can also undermine relationships, well-being, work, and more. The condition is treatable. People living with insomnia who do not get relief from self-care strategies should see a healthcare professional for additional support.
Markdown	- Health Conditions ### Health Conditions - [Alzheimer's & Dementia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/alzheimers-and-dementia) - [Anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/anxiety) - [Asthma & Allergies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/asthma-and-allergies) - [Atopic Dermatitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-atopic-dermatitis) - [Breast Cancer](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/breast-cancer) - [Cancer](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/cancer) - [Cardiovascular Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/cardiovascular-health) - [COVID-19](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/coronavirus?correlationId=2b137d5a-dcfb-464e-9ea6-72c5a54b4e92) - [Diabetes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/diabetes) - [Endometriosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/endometriosis) - [Environment & Sustainability](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/environment-and-sustainability) - [Exercise & Fitness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/exercise-and-fitness) - [Eye Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/eye-health) - [Headache & Migraine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/headache-and-migraine) - [Health Equity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/health-equity) - [HIV & AIDS](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/hiv-and-aids) - [Human Biology](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/human-biology) - [Leukemia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/leukemia) - [LGBTQIA+](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/LGBTQIA) - [Men's Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/mens-health) - [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/mental-health) - [Multiple Sclerosis (MS)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/multiple-sclerosis) - [Nutrition](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/nutrition) - [Parkinson's Disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/parkinsons-disease) - [Psoriasis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/psoriasis) - [Sexual Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/sexual-health) - [Ulcerative Colitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/program/investigating-ulcerative-colitis) - [Women's Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/womens-health) - Health Products ### Health Products [All](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews) - [Nutrition & Fitness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/nutrition-and-fitness-products) - [Vitamins & Supplements](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/vitamin-and-supplement-products) - [CBD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/cbd-products) - [Sleep](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/sleep-products) - [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/mental-health-services-and-products) - [At-Home Testing](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/at-home-testing-products) - [Men’s Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/mens-health-products) - [Women’s Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/products-and-reviews/womens-health-products) - Discover ### News - [Latest News](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/news) - [Medicare 2026 Costs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medicare-costs-3-key-changes-in-2026) ### Original Series - [Medical Myths](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/medical-myths) - [Honest Nutrition](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/honest-nutrition) - [Through My Eyes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/through-my-eyes) - [New Normal Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content-series/new-normal-health) ### Podcasts [All](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/in-conversation-podcast) - [Artificial sweeteners and brain aging: What we know so far](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/artificial-sweeteners-and-brain-aging-what-we-know-so-far) - [Does the Mediterranean diet hold the key to longevity?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-the-mediterranean-diet-hold-the-key-to-longevity) - [AMA: Registered dietitian answers 5 key questions about fiber and weight loss](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-fiber-help-lose-weight-dietitian-answers-5-key-questions) - [Health misinformation and disinformation: How to avoid it](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/health-misinformation-and-disinformation-how-to-avoid-it) - [Brain health, sleep, diet: 3 health resolutions for 2025](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain-health-sleep-diet-3-health-resolutions-for-2025) - [5 things everyone should know about menopause](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/5-things-everyone-should-know-about-menopause) - Tools ### General Health - [Drugs A-Z](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/drugs) - [Health Hubs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/content-hubs) - [Newsletter](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/newsletter) - [Medicare Plans by State](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/health-medicare-state-coverage) ### Health Tools - [Find a Doctor](https://connect.medicalnewstoday.com/) - [BMI Calculators and Charts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323586) - [Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327077) - [Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316898) - [Sleep Calculator](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-calculator) ### Quizzes - [RA Myths vs Facts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/science-fact-or-fiction-separating-ra-myths-from-facts#1) - [Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/managing-blood-sugar-type-2-diabetes-quiz#1) - [Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/complementary-therapies-for-as-quiz#1) - Connect ### About Medical News Today - [Who We Are](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about) - [Our Editorial Process](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process) - [Content Integrity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/content-integrity) - [Conscious Language](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/conscious-language) ### Find Community - [Bezzy Breast Cancer](https://www.bezzybc.com/lp/2/?verzenio&utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) - [Bezzy MS](https://www.bezzyms.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) - [Bezzy Migraine](https://www.bezzymigraine.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) - [Bezzy Psoriasis](https://www.bezzypsoriasis.com/?utm_source=mnt&utm_medium=nav-bar-connect) ### Follow Us Subscribe Explore more in - Types - Treatment - Related Conditions - Management - Home Remedies - Stages - Prognosis - Complications - Causes & Risk Factors Insomnia #### Related Topics - ### Types Types #### Related Articles - [Types Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-insomnia) - [Sudden Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia) - [Rebound Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rebound-insomnia) - [Idiopathic Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/idiopathic-insomnia) - ### Treatment Treatment #### Related Articles - [Treatment Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia) - [Treating Anxiety and Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-medication-for-anxiety-and-insomnia) - [Doxepin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/doxepin-for-insomnia) - [Lunesta (eszopiclone)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-lunesta) - [Belsomra (suvorexant)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-belsomra) - [Ambien and Ambien CR (zolpidem)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-ambien) - [Quviviq (daridorexant)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-quviviq) - [Dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dora-insomnia-medication) - [CBT-I vs. Medication](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/insomnia-therapy) - [Medications](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-the-best-prescription-medication-for-sleep) - [Dayvigo (lemborexant)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-dayvigo) - [Sleep Restriction Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-restriction-therapy) - ### Related Conditions Related Conditions #### Related Articles - [Related Conditions Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325294) - [Sleep Apnea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-apnea-insomnia) - [Hyperparathyroidism](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hyperparathyroidism-insomnia) - [Paradoxical Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/paradoxical-insomnia) - [Mental Illness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-insomnia-a-mental-illness) - [COVID-19](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-beat-covid-insomnia) - [Painsomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/painsomnia) - ### Management Management #### Related Articles - [Management Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322928) - [How to Stay Asleep](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-maintenance-insomnia) - [Light Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/insomnia-light-therapy) - [Exercise](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/exercise-insomnia) - [Best Mattresses for Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-mattresses-for-sleeping-disorders) - [Hypnosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hypnosis-for-insomnia) - ### Home Remedies Home Remedies #### Related Articles - [Home Remedies Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/home-remedies-for-insomnia) - [Best CBD for Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cbd-for-insomnia) - ### Stages Stages #### Related Articles - [Insomnia in the Elderly](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/insomnia-in-the-elderly) - [Insomnia in Early Pregnancy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323475) - [Postpartum Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/postpartum-insomnia) - ### Prognosis Prognosis #### Related Articles - [How Long Does Insomnia Last?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-does-insomnia-last) - [Disability Status](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-insomnia-a-disability) - ### Complications Complications #### Related Articles - [Effects of 24 Hours of No Sleep](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324799) - [Stroke](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chronic-insomnia-may-increase-stroke-risk) - ### Causes & Risk Factors Causes & Risk Factors #### Related Articles - [Lexapro](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-time-to-take-lexapro-to-avoid-insomnia) - [Benzodiazepine Withdrawal](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benzo-withdrawal) - [Zoloft](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/zoloft-insomnia) - [Menstruation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/period-insomnia) - [Diphenhydramine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-diphenhydramine-cause-insomnia) - [Quitting Smoking](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/quit-smoking-insomnia) - [Female Hormones](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/women-hormones-and-insomnia) # What to know about sudden insomnia ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Zawn Villines]() — [Updated on March 27, 2023]() - [Signs and symptoms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#signs-and-symptoms) - [Causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#causes) - [Early pregnancy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#early-pregnancy) - [Treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#treatment) - [Complications](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#complications) - [When to see a doctor](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#when-to-see-a-doctor) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-insomnia#summary) Sudden insomnia is usually a form of acute insomnia, which means that insomnia appears quickly, then lasts for a short time. People with insomnia [typically](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/insomnia) have trouble getting to sleep, staying asleep, or even getting good quality sleep. A lack of sleep can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities. Sudden insomnia is one of the most common sleep problems. According to [2020 research](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/), nearly a third of the population reports new or acute insomnia yearly. Some cases of sudden insomnia last for a long time and may lead to a more chronic condition. [No single factor](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554516/) explains all cases of sudden insomnia. A combination of environment, genetics, health, stress, lifestyle, and other factors may play a role. Read on to learn more about sudden insomnia, including its causes, symptoms, and when a person should seek medical attention. ## [Signs and symptoms]() ![person sleeping on train](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2022/11/sudden_insomnia_GettyImages755760325_Header-1024x575.jpg?w=1155&h=1528) [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fsudden-insomnia&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2022%2F11%2Fsudden_insomnia_GettyImages755760325_Header-1024x575.jpg&description=Sudden%20insomnia%3A%20What%20causes%20it%2C%20treatment%2C%20and%20more "Share on Pinterest") Maria Arnaoutaki/EyeEm/Getty Images Sudden insomnia [means](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554516/) that symptoms of insomnia appear abruptly rather than gradually. It is often acute or short-term. Short-term insomnia can last between a few days to weeks. Sudden insomnia is a symptom and not a diagnosis. While there are many different causes, some require medical treatment, but others — such as poor sleep habits — may respond well to lifestyle changes. Some common signs and symptoms of sudden insomnia include: - difficulty falling asleep - frequent nighttime waking - difficulty falling back asleep after waking - extreme daytime [tiredness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248002) - changes in sleep patterns, such as having more nightmares or not dreaming Insomnia does not necessarily mean that a person is sick or in poor health, but it can be an early symptom of some health problems, such as sleep apnea. ## [Causes of sudden insomnia]() The fact that insomnia is sudden does not necessarily mean anything about its cause. Sudden and chronic insomnia have similar causes. [Research](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/) typically finds that insomnia is a state of hyperarousal. This means that the brain and body are more active than they should be. Many different factors can cause this phenomenon. People with insomnia tend to have: - higher levels of nighttime cortisol, a type of hormone - higher levels of blood sugar, or glucose - higher nighttime body temperatures Some of the more common causes include: ### Hormonal changes Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers. Changes in hormone levels, either from normal life changes like pregnancy and [menopause](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/155651), or disorders that affect the thyroid and other hormone-secreting organs, may cause sleep issues. For example, [hyperthyroidism](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9153) may [cause](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8423342/) a person to feel very awake and alert. A person may experience a racing heart of anxiety that further intensifies feelings of restlessness and insomnia. ### Lifestyle factors Numerous lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of insomnia. Insomnia may appear suddenly when a person’s lifestyle changes. It can also happen gradually, or suddenly appear even after a person has had an unhealthy lifestyle for a long time. Some lifestyle factors [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554516/): - drinking too much caffeine, especially before bed - drinking too much alcohol - exercising right before bed - watching TV or playing with a phone in bed - thinking about or doing stressful things right before bed - an irregular sleep schedule - shift work that disrupts a person’s natural circadian rhythm ### Sleep environment A person’s sleep environment can make it more difficult to sleep. Loud noises, an uncomfortable bed, a room that is too hot, or a new sleeping environment may contribute to sleep issues. Also, a sudden change in a person’s sleep environment [can trigger sudden insomnia](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/insomnia). ### Sleep disorders Numerous sleep disorders can cause insomnia, and sometimes it comes on suddenly. [Some examples include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560720/): - sleep apnea, which may cause a person to repeatedly wake because of breathing difficulties - [restless leg syndrome](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7882), which can cause a person to repeatedly move their legs to relieve unusual and painful sensations - circadian rhythm disorders, which disrupt the body’s usual sleep-wake cycle ### Mental health [Anxiety from](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554516/) a short-term stressor such as a job loss or moving to a new home may cause sudden insomnia. Chronic [mental health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154543) issues such as depression may also lead to sleep difficulties. ### Physical conditions A number of physical health conditions may contribute to insomnia by making sleep uncomfortable or painful. For example, chronic pain, [migraine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/148373), or a broken bone may all lead to insomnia. Treating the underlying physical cause may help. [Learn more about how doctors diagnose insomnia.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9155#diagnosis) ## [Sudden insomnia in early pregnancy]() Pregnancy often causes insomnia and sleep difficulties. [A 2021 meta-analysis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33140514/) reports the overall prevalence of insomnia during pregnancy to be 38.2%, but other sources suggest the figure is much higher. [According to an older 2015 paper](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4935047/), around 66% to 94% of pregnant people report sleep difficulties during pregnancy. Sudden [insomnia during early pregnancy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323475) can happen for [several](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4935047/) reasons, [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5017073/): - nausea and vomiting from [morning sickness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179633) - a rise in progesterone, which causes symptoms such as [sleep apnea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178633) and daytime sleepiness, as well as the cycle of excessive napping and more frequent nighttime waking - [back pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/172943) - more frequent urination While it is not usually a cause for concern, people should discuss all new pregnancy symptoms with a healthcare professional. ## [Treatment]() When an underlying medical condition — such as hyperthyroidism — causes sudden insomnia, treatment requires addressing this cause. Treatments for unexplained insomnia might [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554516/): - Sleep hygiene: Sleep hygiene means adopting strategies that make sleep easier. This includes using the bed only for sleep or sex, not watching TV or playing with a phone in bed, sleeping in a cool and dark room, and ensuring the bed is comfortable. - A consistent sleep routine: Going to bed and waking at the same time each day, regardless of how much sleep a person gets can help. If a person cannot fall asleep, they should leave the bed and do something else. - Sleep restriction: This means minimizing or eliminating daytime naps and reducing the total time a person sleeps. This can help a person feel more tired, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. - Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can ease underlying mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia ([CBT](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/296579)\-I) and some other insomnia treatments can help a person calm racing thoughts, adopt healthier sleep practices, and manage insomnia. While sleep medications can help with short-term insomnia, they are potentially addictive. They are not intended for long-term use, so it is important to pursue other treatment strategies while using [sleeping medication](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-the-best-prescription-medication-for-sleep). ## [Complications]() Insomnia itself is not a progressive disease. However, it can cause many serious issues, such as: - daytime sleepiness that increases the risk of car accidents and injuries - intense fatigue that leads to depression, stress, or difficulty concentrating - work or relationship problems from chronic fatigue and trouble concentrating Emerging research also suggests that insomnia may be a risk factor for other diseases. For example, [a 2019 study](https://n.neurology.org/content/93/23/e2110) investigating cardiovascular disease incidence among half a million adults in China, found that insomnia was a risk factor. However, it is unclear whether insomnia or [sleep deprivation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/307334) causes cardiovascular disease, or if the two diseases share similar risk factors or disease pathways. ## [When to see a doctor]() See a doctor if: - A person develops other symptoms along with insomnia, such as pain or trouble breathing at night. - A person’s insomnia progressively worsens or does not improve with home treatment. - A person can only sleep with the use of medication sleep aids. - A person has mental health issues such as [anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323454) or [depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933). ## [Summary]() Sudden insomnia can be very frustrating. A person might lie awake at night for hours, unable to sleep, only to feel exhausted the next day. Sudden insomnia is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and it may point to a wide range of issues, from serious health problems to temporary lifestyle inconveniences. Insomnia can also undermine relationships, well-being, work, and more. The condition is treatable. People living with insomnia who do not get relief from self-care strategies should see a healthcare professional for additional support. - [Public Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/public-health) - [Psychology / Psychiatry](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/psychology-psychiatry) - [Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/sleep) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - Green, M. E., et al. (2021). Thyroid dysfunction and sleep disorders. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8423342/> - Hashmi, A. M., et al. (2016). Insomnia during pregnancy: Diagnosis and rational interventions. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5017073/> - Karna, B., et al. (2022). Sleep disorder. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560720/> - Kaur, H., et al. (2022). Chronic insomnia. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526136/> - Momin, R. R., et al. (2022). Short term insomnia. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554516/> - Reichner, C. A. (2015). Insomnia and sleep deficiency in pregnancy. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4935047/> - Sedov, I. D., et al. (2021). Insomnia symptoms during pregnancy: A meta-analysis \[Abstract\]. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33140514/> - Vargas, I., et al. (2020). Acute and chronic insomnia: What has time and/or hyperarousal got to do with it? <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7071368/> - What is insomnia? (2022). <https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/insomnia> - Zheng, B., et al. (2019). Insomnia symptoms and risk of cardiovascular diseases among 0.5 million adults. <https://n.neurology.org/content/93/23/e2110> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Thomas-Johnson-500x500-Bio1.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Thomas Johnson, PA-C]() — Written by [Zawn Villines]() — [Updated on March 27, 2023]() ## Latest news - [4 key changes to US diets: Prioritize protein, full-fat dairy, and more](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/4-key-changes-us-dietary-guidelines-prioritize-protein-full-fat-dairy) - [Walking, house chores may help lower diabetes, heart disease death risk](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/walking-house-chores-may-help-lower-diabetes-heart-disease-death-risk) - [High cholesterol may predict future heart disease risk, even in healthy women](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/high-cholesterol-predict-future-heart-disease-risk-lipoprotein-healthy-women) - [Many Brazilians live past 110: What are their secrets?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/many-brazilians-live-past-110-what-are-their-secrets) - [Exercise may reduce depression symptoms as effectively as therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/exercise-may-reduce-depression-symptoms-as-effectively-as-therapy) ### Related Coverage - [9 home remedies for insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/home-remedies-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Janet Hilbert, MD](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/reviewers) [A person with insomnia can try various techniques to encourage the onset of sleep and improve its quality and duration. Learn more here.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/home-remedies-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/home-remedies-for-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Worrying about insomnia may do more harm than poor sleep](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320025?utm_source=ReadNext) [The belief that we have insomnia may disrupt physical and emotional health regardless of whether we sleep well or poorly, new research suggests.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320025?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320025?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Insomnia and ankylosing spondylitis: What to know](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/insomnia-and-ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Nancy Carteron, M.D., FACR](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/reviewers) [Research indicates that the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can have an effect on sleep quality. Learn more about insomnia and AS here.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/insomnia-and-ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/insomnia-and-ankylosing-spondylitis?utm_source=ReadNext) - [The best sleep aids for chronic insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [Some medications may help relieve chronic insomnia, but people need to exercise caution when using them over a prolonged period. Learn more here.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleep-aids-for-chronic-insomnia?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/additional-information). - [About Us](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about) - [Contact Us](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/contact-us) - [Terms of Use](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/terms-of-use) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/privacy-policy) - Privacy Settings - [Advertising Policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ad-policy) - [Health Topics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/directory/a-b) - [Health Hubs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/content-hubs) - [Medical Affairs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/reviewers) - [Content Integrity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/content-integrity) - [Newsletters](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/newsletter) - [Your Privacy Choices](https://privacyportal.onetrust.com/webform/b45407c6-ee79-4a08-912e-02ce898f9a14/6a88ff3d-e0ff-44b3-bb05-e8a2a65072fe) - © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/additional-information). © 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/about/additional-information). [About](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https://rvohealth.com/careers)[Advertise with us](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/advertise?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise) OUR BRANDS [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/)[Medical News Today](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/)[Greatist](https://greatist.com/)[Psych Central](https://psychcentral.com/)[Bezzy](https://bezzy.com/) ![](http://b.scorecardresearch.com/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)
Readable Markdown	null
Shard	110 (laksa)
Root Hash	5853625527623639710
Unparsed URL	com,medicalnewstoday!www,/articles/sudden-insomnia s443