Sleeping problems ??

[Von66]

5 months post op Ivor Lewis finding sleeping at night really difficult just can’t seem to drop off think the morphine was helping before but stopped it now as no pain as such anyone else still taking morphine ? Any suggestions for sleeping ? Feeling really down at the minute as I am suffering with the acid reflux especially in the mornings making me wrench then I don’t want to eat but have to try because losing too much weight so many issues I’m hoping they all settle down with time can’t see how I can ever go back to work with all these issues 😞any tips would be appreciated xx

[FKM100]

Perhaps you could ask your doctor to prescribe a mild sleeping pill? I am now a year post-op and have been taking a pill every night since my diagnosis. I wouldn't be able to sleep without it. As it is, I sleep really well and that makes all the difference to my physical well-being and mental outlook.

I think we are often brainwashed into thinking that sleeping pills are terrible and to be avoided at all costs, but I see no virtue in struggling bravely on alone. It all depends on your needs. To me it's worth it for a really good night's sleep.

[worthbanner in reply to FKM100]

I agree with this 💯 % but one should expect somewhat less than eight solid hours of sleep from such drugs as Ambien. For the reflux, Gaviscon Advance has been a godsend--I couldn't get along without it.

[kiddy]

Hi there,Firstly you have gone through a major op. Reality of this plays on your mind.

I found downloading a relaxation app like headspace helped me drift off naturally. Are you taking Gaviscon advance at night and propping yourself up. Eat early .

We all go through some or all of these things.

I still get bouts of reflux sometimes for no reason.

Stay positive. Your weight should level out soon. Snack more than eat meals if it helps little and often better than too much.

Best Wishes

Debbie

[Mauser1905]

How about tiring out brains and eyes by playing mind games like sudoku, reading, or solitaire on your mobile etc? Whichever works for you.

Also controlling sleep in the second half of the day.

One of the issues of using strong medicines for sleeping is with possibility of stomach contents going into lungs, only plausibility. This may have greater issues on recovery as a whole. Remember now you don't have a LES anymore an only relying on oesophagus's natural ability to stop the contents from moving upwards to mouth.

If you are tolerating then can try nicely toasted bread, pop corn in the night to soak up the stomach acid and manage sound sleep for more time.

Also gaviscon advance liquid helps in the morning or middle of the night. 5 months is still very early time and body is still adjusting so is you.

Body will require its own sweet time for settling with New Normal, so do you need to accept, adjust and adapt to this New Normal mentally too.

Good luck.