How to cope with insomnia?

I have been a severe chronic insomniac since 1975. I have not had one normal sleep since 1975. And when my insomnia began, it presented just like yours is presenting. I could only sleep 3 - 4 hours a night for days and then I would finally collapse and have a good sleep. And then the pattern would begin over again. I have never been able to lick my insomnia. I have had to learn to cope with it and manage as best as I can. I suggest that you see a doctor first -- your regular doctor. He / she might prescribe sleeping pills for a short period of time to see if that will break the cycle and stabilize you. Be careful of pills. They can be habit forming and there are always side effects. If your insomnia persists, you want to consult with a sleep specialist. You need to find the source of your insomnia so as to treat it. Mine is a neurological problem but there is not much that can be done for me. I have had to learn to live with it as best as I can. But my advice to you for now is to see a doctor. First, your primary care specialist and then a sleep disorders specialist.