What causes insomnia at night and excessive sleepiness during the day?

Generally, insomnia at night and excessive daytime sleepiness may be related to circadian rhythm disorders, poor sleep environment, neurasthenia, depression, or sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Circadian rhythm disorders, also known as sleep-wake rhythm disturbances, refer to a misalignment between an individual's sleep-wake cycle and their desired schedule, leading to insomnia at night, sleepiness during the day, and possibly feelings of fatigue. It is recommended to reset the biological clock by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

2. Poor Sleep Environment

Excessive noise, overly bright lighting, or extreme room temperatures (too cold or too hot) can impair sleep quality, resulting in nighttime insomnia and daytime drowsiness. It is advisable to improve the sleep environment by ensuring it is quiet, comfortable, warm, and softly lit.

3. Neurasthenia

Neurasthenia is a psychological condition characterized primarily by weakness in brain and bodily functions, often caused by prolonged stress and tension. Chronic neurasthenia keeps the brain in a state of high alertness, making it difficult to fall asleep at night and causing excessive daytime sleepiness. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as Anshen Bunao Liquid, Xiaoyao Pills, or Jiuyi Zhenxin Granules.

4. Depression

Depression is a typical form of depressive disorder, with symptoms including low mood, reduced interest, and slowed thinking. In individuals with depression, imbalances in neurotransmitters in the brain—such as decreased levels or impaired function of central nervous system neurotransmitter receptors—can lead to insomnia at night and sleepiness during the day, often accompanied by persistent low mood. Under medical guidance, medications such as Sertraline Hydrochloride Tablets, Paroxetine Hydrochloride Tablets, or Amitriptyline Hydrochloride Tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome

Sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome is a clinical condition caused by various factors leading to recurrent episodes of breathing pauses and shallow breathing during sleep, resulting in hypercapnia, fragmented sleep, and a series of pathological and physiological changes in the body. Patients with this syndrome experience repeated upper airway collapse and obstruction during sleep, causing nighttime insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and possibly symptoms such as memory decline and difficulty concentrating. Under medical supervision, medications such as Aminophylline Tablets, Prednisone Acetate Tablets, or Methimazole Tablets may be prescribed for treatment.

In daily life, it is important to adjust one’s mindset, learn to relax, and reduce stress and anxiety. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be helpful in promoting mental and physical relaxation.