Insomnia treatment

Insomnia means trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. Almost everyone has a bad night now and then. When it happens most nights for 3 months or more, it is called chronic insomnia, and it is time to get help. At Universal Sleep Solutions in Leander, Texas, Dr. Minal Patel treats insomnia in adults, teens and children.

What happens at your first visit?

Dr. Patel asks about your sleep, your daily habits, your health and your medicines. She looks for things that can keep you awake, such as stress, pain, caffeine, shift work or another sleep problem. You may be asked to keep a sleep diary for a week or two. A diary shows when you go to bed, when you fall asleep and when you wake up.

Do you need a sleep test for insomnia?

A sleep study is not always needed for insomnia. Dr. Patel may suggest one if she thinks another problem is part of the cause, such as sleep apnea or restless legs. Some people wear a small wrist device at home for a while. This is called actigraphy. It tracks when you sleep and when you are awake.

How is insomnia treated?

• CBT-I — Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. It is the top treatment, and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends it. It changes the thoughts and habits that keep insomnia going.
• Sleep habits — Small daily changes that help your body get ready for sleep. Read our sleep hygiene tips.
• Body clock help — For people whose sleep times run too late or too early. See circadian rhythm sleep disorders.
• Medicine — Sometimes used for a short time along with therapy. Dr. Patel checks each person carefully before she suggests it.

How do you get started?

• Pre-register online — Fill out the secure form on our patient portal. We will contact you to set up your visit.
• Ask your doctor — Your doctor can fax a referral to (877) 569-2885.
• Call us — Have questions first? Call (512) 931-1575, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.