When to see a doctor?
Yes, it is perfectly normal to see a doctor regarding any lasting changes in your sleep pattern.
Generally speaking, sleep issues are mostly manageable with slight alterations and efforts in the right direction. However, it’s best to visit a doctor when your problems don’t seem to go away in a month. Alternatively, you must also not delay consulting a professional if you notice any significant symptoms arising out of lack of proper sleep. These can include the inability to be efficient at work, fatigue, loss of appetite, and the like. Ignoring these signs can lead to long-term health complications such as heart diseases, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, etc.
Therefore, if you have difficulty falling asleep or wake up during the night for around 20 to 30 minutes, it’s best to get to the underlying cause instead of ignoring it.
The first thing your physician may do is conduct a comprehensive physical exam to rule out any health issues. Based on your reports, they may either suggest some corrective actions needed to be performed on your part or refer you to a specialist. You may also be asked to keep a journal of your sleeping habits, any changes, how long they lasted, etc. Regardless of whether you are an insomniac or not, tracking your sleep is crucial. Quality sleep ensures optimal functioning of the body.
