If you are not staying asleep, then you may be dealing with insomnia. This condition can be acute or chronic. Acute insomnia may last for a few nights or a few weeks, and chronic insomnia happens three nights per week. If this problem is left untreated, it may restrict you from getting the proper sleep that your body needs. This may increase the risk of chronic health issues and accidental injuries. Your primary health care doctor helps to diagnose and treat it. According to your past health history and certain symptoms, they refer you to different health care specialists such as psychologists, psychiatrists or any other medical physician. To treat the problem of insomnia, you may consult with the following doctors:-

Primary Care Doctor 

The first doctor with whom you may discuss your sleep disorder. They suggest strategies to get the best sleep. For example, they may suggest changes in your sleeping pattern and lifestyle. They also recommend changes in medication if you are currently taking it that interrupts your sleep. If the recommendations by the primary doctor are unsuccessful, then they may refer you to other specialists if they suspect the sleep problems are caused by various health conditions.  

Pediatrician 

If your child has insomnia, then book an appointment with a paediatrician. They have special training to treat children. They help to diagnose and suggest appropriate treatment for your child.  But they may refer the child to another specialist for better care in future. Your child may need a developmental behavioural pediatrician, who has special training in developmental, behavioural and learning issues.

Neurologist 

You may also consult with a neurologist, a doctor trained to treat disorders related to the nervous system. The imbalance in the brain’s chemistry can cause insomnia. Neurologists can also treat restless legs syndrome, which is a common cause of insomnia. Some neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease can also contribute to insomnia. If your primary doctor suggests that you need care from a neurologist, then you may ask if they can connect you with the best one. 

Psychologist 

Insomnia may also be caused by stress in your daily routine. Psychologists can deal with the feelings and thoughts that make it difficult for you to sleep properly. They can also suggest to you the strategies about relaxation that you can use before going to bed. Behavioural therapies are also helpful, but they require a few weeks. So it’s better to look for mental health professionals who have proper training in behavioural sleep therapies. 

Psychiatrist 

Sometimes insomnia is related to depression and anxiety. If you have any mental health issues, then you need treatment for psychiatric conditions and insomnia. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication for the condition that is interrupting your sleep. 

Sleep Medicine Specialist 

Such specialists are best at diagnosing and treating insomnia. Sleep medicine specialists have special training to treat sleep problems. They will work with physician assistants to plan a systematic approach to your care. This may also involve a sleep study. 

Alternative And Complementary Medicine Physicians 

Many physicians of alternative and complementary medicines offer effective treatment for insomnia. For example, yoga and meditation instructors guide you in the proper way to learn relaxation techniques that help you sleep better. Massage therapists also help you relieve muscle tension and feel relaxed. According to the study, acupuncture is also one of the effective treatments for insomnia. The symptoms improve after three weeks.   

Conclusion 

To treat insomnia, you can meet a sleep specialist. The team of various doctors obtain sleep specialist certification. If you don’t know whom you have to consult, then here is our specialist! Dr. Anshul Mahajan and Dr. Akshit Mahajan are both the best psychiatrists at Manas Hospital and recommend changes in lifestyle so that you can manage your personal and professional life while dealing with anxiety and stress. The clinic offers treatment combined with a personal approach and friendly care so that you feel comfortable during the treatment. 

FAQ’S 

Who should I consult first for sleep problems?

For sleep problems, you may consult with your primary care doctor first. 

Do I need a neurologist or psychiatrist?

It depends: if the insomnia is caused by a nerve issue, then you need a neurologist; if it is caused by anxiety or stress, then you need a psychiatrist.