How has the patient been sleeping recently?

When did the problem begin? (To differentiate between acute and chronic insomnia)

Does the patient have a psychiatric or medical condition that may cause insomnia? (May relate to an underlying condition that should be treated first)

Is the sleep environment conducive to sleep? (Noise, interruptions, temperature, light)

Does the patient report “creeping, crawling or uncomfortable feelings” in the legs that are relieved by moving the legs? (May relate to restless legs syndrome)

Does the bed partner report that the patient's legs or arms jerk during sleep? (May relate to periodic limb movements in sleep)

Does the patient snore loudly, gasp, choke or stop breathing during sleep? (May relate to obstructive sleep apnea)

Is the patient a shift worker? What are the work hours? Is the patient an adolescent? (May relate to circadian sleep disorders/sleep deprivation)

What are the bedtimes and rise times on weekdays and weekends? (May relate to poor sleep hygiene)

Does the patient use caffeine, tobacco or alcohol? Does the patient take over-the-counter or prescription medications (such as stimulating antidepressants, steroids, decongestants, beta blockers)? (May relate to substance-induced insomnia)

What daytime consequences does the patient report? (Daytime consequences may be significant)

Does the patient report dozing off or having difficulty staying awake during routine tasks, especially while driving? (This is a serious problem that should be dealt with promptly)