Biology question

Gray: I have had autoimmune testing and they "said" that all of that was not applicable to me. However, you mentioning sinus problems reminded me that whenever I am awakened with the dreams and burning stomach and when I spit in the sink afterwards, I have noticed that my saliva looks white and milky (and this is whether I have eaten my milk and cereal or not) looking but during the day (non-sleeping periods) my saliva looks normal/clear. Have sometimes wondered if something could be draining from my head into my stomach but then I generally do not have any regular/ongoing sinus problems. Thanks.

@wpshooter I congratulate you on the systematic way that you are seeking answers by going to different specialists. You seem to be doing a good job at looking at the "whole picture" so to speak. I do agree with @kariulrich that a sleep study specialist can provide you more information that just breathing-related sleep problems. They are very qualified sleep specialists and may be able to shed some light on your situation. We will be looking forward to hearing from you again and best wishes. Teresa

@wpshooter I've been mulling over your post and doing some research. It seems many doctors are dismissing your condition as GERD and treating it as such. Have they done any testing such as a CT scan with contrast? I had gastric bypass 10 years ago and suffer from GERD. One time I went to the ER with excruciating abdominal pain and nausea. They did a CT scan with contrast ( I kept turning, rolling so much I felt like a piece of mean being cooked on a rotissiere!) They found I had gallstones, confirmed GERD but no other issues. While I'm not a doctor, I don't see how there is any difference in being awake or asleep would effect Acid reflux or Bile reflux, which you can read more about here: Bile Reflux http://mayocl.in/2pZRwdN
I would venture a guess that you may not notice reflux during the day from food or liquid in your stomach preventing the burning sensation.

As far as vivid dreams, I've been treated for them for about 15 years now. The link that @kanaazpereira gave for Sleep Health is very useful http://mayocl.in/2oVAlwA. I was diagnosed by a psychiatrist with sleep terrors and currently take Trazodone to 'turn off' the brain so I feel rested when I do sleep.

wpshooter, Have you seen a doctor for your sleep issues?

@sandytoes14 Thanks Jen, lots of good ideas in your post. Teresa

Does this Trazodone stop the vivid dreams from occurring and are there any detrimental side effects to taking it ? Is it habit forming ?

It is my understanding that having dreams (but not vivid / stressful ones) are a beneficial and necessary part of sleeping.

P.S. - I have been taking Prilosec for a little over 2 weeks now and the stomach burning, dreams and waking up continues every night/sleep period just like before. Other doctors have tried this PPI (and most all of the other ones) before with basically no effect and some have actually seemed to make things worse.

Thanks.

@wpshooter I know you are really heartened by all of the excellent support and suggestions you have received from Connect. I was wondering if you have tried a special diet. I am on a special diet for both Colitis and Interstitial Cystitis. This diet eliminates caffeine (coffee, tea and colas,) sugar, gluten, dairy, chocolate, artificial sweeteners, spicy foods, yeast, mushrooms, and acidic foods, (most fruits except for Fuji and Gala apples and blueberries.) I know it looks strict but I am having no problems staying on it. This is because it is really helping my problems as much as medication does. Another thing that helps me is Maalox. Your therapist may also want to use a therapy for phobias called exposure therapy. I was also thinking about a tape recording of soothing music while you sleep. I hope you soon find a solution to your problem because I know it has been difficult and painful for you. Stay strong.

Hi @wpshooter,

Trazodone is an antidepressant, and is often prescribed in lower doses to ease insomnia and, as @sandytoes mentioned, because of it's restful effect.
I take Trazodone at bedtime as well, and have not experienced any vivd dreams because of the drug. @blindeyepug @johnhans @ajgray @jay_baruch @lamerex4 @kyjeanne have written about Trazodone, and I wonder if they will join in to share their experiences while on this medication?

I did have vivid dreams while on Trazadone but only when I was taking it in combination with Prednisone -- to help ease my insomnia.

@wpshooter There is a difference in REM-rapid eye movement- sleep and having dreams that don't produce a restful nights sleep. Here is a link about Trazodone.http://mayocl.in/2oE4EVp
There are also other medicines that have similar results. I noted this one because I am on it and you could use the information as a talking point with your doctor.
All the best to you.

@hopeful33250 Teresa, I'm glad you liked it. Connect is all about sharing and caring! Jen