Insomnia Treatment in San Francisco

Insomnia Specialist in SoMa

Anyone that has difficulty falling or staying asleep, even when they are free of distraction or disturbance, is considered to have a sleep disorder known as insomnia. A few nights of inadequate rest does not necessarily mean that an individual has insomnia, but if these symptoms persist for three or more months, they are likely suffering from some kind of sleep disorder.

If you are experiencing acute or chronic insomnia, contact Dr. Daniel Metzger, DACM, L.Ac. to discuss your condition and the functional and Chinese medicine treatments best for you. To learn more about how Daniel Metzger can relieve your symptoms of insomnia, please call (415) 295-5374 or request a free consultation online. Dr. Metzger offers insomnia care for patients in the San Francisco area, including Mission District, Noe Valley, SoMa, North Beach, and Pacific Heights.

What Are the Different Types of Insomnia?

There are an infinite number of reasons as to why any person would have trouble sleeping. If an individual’s insomnia can be linked to another medical condition such as depression or even heartburn, then it is categorized as secondary insomnia.

Another type of insomnia called primary insomnia describes a situation in which the person does not have any other associated conditions with their sleeping disorder.

What’s the Difference Between Acute and Chronic Insomnia?

An additional distinction exists between insomnia that lasts for a short period (acute insomnia) and insomnia that lasts long term (chronic insomnia).

Acute insomnia typically applies to those who experience insomnia as a result of stress or other serious events going on in their personal lives. For example, you may find it difficult to sleep for several weeks after the passing of a loved one, but eventually, your sleep schedule will stabilize again. In addition to stress, other common causes of acute insomnia include:

• New medications
• Environmental factors such as loud noises or temperature fluctuations
• Illness
• Physical discomfort
• Sudden changes in your sleep schedule like switching from working a day shift to a night shift

Those with chronic insomnia will find that their sleeping issues exist no matter what is or is not happening in their personal life. Chronic insomnia generally lasts much longer than acute insomnia and is often caused by:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Persistent stress
• Physical discomfort

Diagnosis and Treatment for Insomnia

It is important to talk with Dr. Daniel Metzger, DACM, L.Ac if you notice that you have difficulty sleeping for approximately three nights out of the week. First, Dr. Daniel Metzger will collect an in-depth health history to determine the source of the insomnia.

Through functional medicine, Dr. Daniel Metzger may test the neuroendocrine system. With this information, a supplement or herbal protocol will be created to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. The adrenals should be tested to determine if a chronic stress response is making it difficult to transition into the relaxation state. An adrenal stress test can determine the levels of cortisol throughout the day. If produced in excess, the stress hormones will disrupt the sleep-wake cycle. 

The neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine should also be tested. These chemical messengers are critical for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Serotonin is also a precursor to the creation of melatonin, an important sleep hormone. A deficiency or excess of any of these components may contribute to insomnia.

It can also be helpful to keep track of your symptoms by writing them down in a sleep journal. The more information you are able to give Dr. Daniel Metzger, DACM, L.Ac., the better. Additional sleep tests may be conducted by a specialist if necessary.

Once the cause of a patient’s insomnia has been determined, Dr. Daniel Metzger will find suitable treatment options such as:

● Lifestyle changes to diet and exercise to encourage good sleeping habits 

● Herb and supplement protocols 

● Behavioral changes including sleep hygiene and meditation for proper relaxation

For cases of chronic insomnia, it is important to treat the underlying condition that is leading to the person’s disordered sleeping. This can address emotional issues, physical issues, or both.

Over-the-counter sleeping pills are not recommended for people who suffer from insomnia, as they do not remain effective long-term. The best way to take action against your troubling insomnia symptoms is to call (415) 295-5374 or schedule your free consultation online!