Help with sleep after 25 days hospitalization (autism & epilepsy)

Posted by minajo @minajo, 2 days ago

I have a 48 yr old daughter, nonverbal autism/ epilepsy recently underwent sigmoidectomy.. she's been on Lamictal xr 300 daily but getting lab levels takes qeeks
After discharge she has veen very manic, her affect off
I do not like RX sleep pills, any natural supplements that could help? And won't interact with seizure drug?
She takes Melatonin 10 mg bedtime and Calcium, magnesium, zinc
Thanks
Maureen

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autism (ASD) Support Group.

@minajo I would take a look at the sleep disorder support group here https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/sleep-health/
You may find some useful information there. Also, have you checked with her doctors to see what they recommend?
Ginger

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Hi @minajo, as @gingerw suggested, I also added your question to the Epilepsy and the Sleep Health support groups along with the Autism support group.

I think members will be hesitant to suggest any sleep aids or supplements for fear of advising something that could interact with her current medication. Your pharmacist may have helpful suggestions for you.

I can imagine how exhausting the readjustment period is for both you and your daughter. You both need your sleep for healing and to manage the challenges until routine is established again.

Being in the hospital for almost month and going through major surgery is an adjustment for anyone. I can imagine this is especially hard for your daughter. How long has she been home now? Does she sleep during the day?

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Thank you.. yes, it was hard but surgery successful, post op complications but just saw pvp today
Checking labs but she's always had hard time sleeping being autistic
On 50 am, 75 pm Seroquel for many years, actually dose lowered in hospital due to lethargy, was so today so pcp not going back to prehosptalization dose
Buspar 20 am&pm
Lamictal XR 300 mg day for year and half after adverse effects from Zonisamide( Maybe led to chronic constipation then volvulus, tho epileptologist disagrees
Naturally she's very tired after rhe sigmoidectomy dr said first 6 mos
are still normal for recuperation, bowel readjusting after 13" removed
I say after spending 25 days in hospital with my special daughter, she is the strongest person i know
And i worked as a nurse so I've seen lots of patients!
Shes my hero😃

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