What term describes recurring problems in falling or staying asleep?

The term that accurately describes recurring problems in falling or staying asleep is insomnia. Insomnia is characterized by difficulties in initiating sleep, maintaining sleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep, leading to daytime impairment or distress. This condition can manifest as trouble falling asleep at night, waking up frequently during the night, or waking up too early and being unable to return to sleep.

In contrast, other conditions mentioned in the choices have different features. Sleep apnea involves interrupted breathing during sleep, which can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness but does not primarily refer to difficulty falling or staying asleep. Hypersomnia, on the other hand, is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, which may occur despite sleeping for long periods at night. Restless legs syndrome involves uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them, particularly when at rest. While it can affect sleep quality, it is a distinct condition from insomnia.