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Getting and staying asleep

Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2022 5:37 pm
by valerie28
Any suggestions. I suffer with arthritis, sciatica, ibs and vestibular migraines. I struggle to get to sleep due to pain and then struggle to stay asleep also because of pain

Re: Getting and staying asleep

Posted: Thu Apr 07, 2022 10:56 am
by lisaartis
Hi Valerie

Sorry to hear this. Sleep disturbance from chronic pain is common. Are you receiving medical advice for each of them as this will help in terms of your ability to get to and stay asleep? It would be worth speaking to your GP about your health conditions and how it is affecting your sleep.

In addition to medical input you can try the following:

Looking at the mattress you're sleeping on, and the pillow you are using. There are some out there that are specifically good for health conditions and helping with posture and cushioning pressure points etc.

Relaxation techniques e.g. breathing exercises, mindfulness, podcasts, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT is an umbrella term for a host of therapies proven to help improve sleep. Find a therapist that works for you and a technique you can adhere to if you are going to trial this route.

Good nutrition and hydration throughout the day, but particularly avoid caffeine after lunchtime and alcohol or a large meal before bedtime.

Seek daylight throughout the day

Gentle yoga or stretching may be beneficial

You may benefit from some pain management too but you will need to take medial advice on this. If you're already taking medication, your GP may be advise to taking it at different times of the day to help.

Hope that helps.