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Better Sleep with Chronic Pain?

Chronic Pain | Last Active: Mar 30, 2022 | Replies (7)

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@gingerw

@shack76 Being unable to get quality rest seems to be an issue to many of us with chronic pain. Going to OSHU I have heard there are many stellar doctors there [I live further south and inland a bit, at the bottom of Douglas County] .

A few things I have tried, in no particular order:
- our cat sleeps on my lap in the recliner. Her soft fur and purring has helped me relax, to "do it like me" in effect!
- A cup of chamomile tea, sometimes with honey. The B vitamins in the honey will help relax you.
- Deep breathing, concentrating on taking cleansing breaths, chasing out the toxins.
- Journaling and writing out the things that keep your mind spinning like a hamster wheel when you would rather it rest.
- If there are environmental issues, a white-noise machine, cool room, or dark room may be just the ticket.
- Right now with seasonal allergies and pollen count through the roof, are you opposed to taking an antihistamine like benadryl? Some people report the side effect of drowsiness is enough for them to get rest.

I will be interested to hear what works for you! Getting 3 or 4 hours of sleep at a time is about all I do, also.
Ginger

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Replies to "@shack76 Being unable to get quality rest seems to be an issue to many of us..."

Thanks for the response,
I'm very aware there are no easy answers a few that help me and some are similar,
-I have animal, as well, she's a furry little dog (poodle-mini schnauzer mix)
-I've found a few guided meditations that have some effect (there are quite a few for sleep, and a some specifically for pain relief.) They are not a complete solution, but helpful.
-Being on the coast and close enough (that if the night is not really cold) I can open the window and hear the ocean. That's also why allergies are not an issue, though the medication I'm really only opposed to is sleeping pills. (They can have a ton of absurd side-effects I don't to deal with).
-Music can help. (Playing it myself works better for me than listen as it as a similar effect to meditation. And specific music is more beneficial than others. Bach is probably the best if you need to relax.
And yes like our other response, don't be afraid to nap.