Chronic Insomnia May Mask Underlying Physical and Mental Illnesses, Says Sleep Medicine Specialist
Dr. Mohamed Turki, a specialist in sleep medicine, warned that chronic insomnia (lasting three months or more) can conceal a wide range of physical and psychological disorders.
Expert Interview
During a televised interview with the Tunisian News Agency (ATA), Dr. Turki emphasized the importance of consulting specialist physicians for the necessary laboratory tests and imaging studies. Identifying the disease that triggers insomnia and starting the appropriate treatment early can prevent the health situation from deteriorating.
Psychiatric Conditions Linked to Insomnia
The doctor highlighted that many mental‑health disorders cause insomnia, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Psychotic disorders
Because of this, prompt psychiatric consultation is crucial to avoid worsening the risks associated with these conditions and to prevent the onset of avoidable physical illnesses.
Medication Advice
- Avoid conventional sleeping pills for treating insomnia, as they can lead to dependence.
- Physicians prescribe them only in extreme cases, following a strict medical protocol.
- Natural‑based sleep aids (e.g., herbal or melatonin formulations) are considered safe for short‑term insomnia lasting a few days and pose no health risk for the user.
Global Insomnia Statistics
- 40 % of the world’s population experiences transient (short‑term) insomnia.
- More than 15 % suffer from chronic insomnia.
Dr. Turki concluded that insomnia is an increasing global health issue that warrants early detection, proper medical evaluation, and careful treatment choices.
