Struggling to get comfortable when sleeping - PSP Association

PSP Association

9,658 members11,568 posts

Struggling to get comfortable when sleeping

Derek1uk profile image
3 Replies

Hello all, my wife is exhausted and 1) She's scared to sleep in case she doesn't wake up and 2) The pain in her neck and shoulders from lying down.

Now we've got a V-shaped pillow which she puts (normal) pillows on top of the V-shaped pillow but TBH this isn't working. Is she doing right or wrong? I've suggested she just uses the V-shaped but that doesn't give her enough neck support, now currently she's only on Paracetamol as she has allergies to Co-Codamol and Nurofen/ibuprofen and similar pain killers. Hopefully she'll be able to source something else on Monday when she speaks to her G.p for the first time since the diagnosis was given last Sunday.

Can I ask, what do other people in the group use to help with Sleep issues? Pillow wise I mean? Any links to buying sites in the UK would help if allowed please.

Derek

Written by
Derek1uk profile image
Derek1uk
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
3 Replies
AnneandChris profile image
AnneandChris

Dear Derek

I'm so sorry your wife has had this diagnosis.

Please speak to your wife's GP and ask for an OT and physio referral, so that you can get ahead of them game when it comes togetting equipment etc. They will come and assess what you need as and when the need arises. A referral to a SALT would be good to. Once you've had these appointments it is easier to contact these practitioners.

We had tremendous support from the various bits if the NHS who were either at the end of a phone or in person if we had any queries with aids being supplied quickly and efficiently.

If you haven't already done so please contact the PSPA who can advise too.

Keep on keeping on, it isn't an easy journey!

Anne

LFG3 profile image
LFG3

Hello,

A prescription sleep aid called Trazadone works well for my husband with no daytime drowsiness afterwards. He uses the arthritis strength Tylenol and Icy Hot balm for neck stiffness and pain. He also uses a heating pad set on low on his neck during the day while he is in his recliner. He uses a thick memory foam pillow which gives a lot of support as he is a side sleeper.

Hope this helps.

Amstel95 profile image
Amstel95

My partner has also had neck problems, particularly at night. He now uses an ibuprofen gel which he rubs on his neck which helps. He has tried several pillows and eventually has found a shaped memory foam pillow that seems to improve things - I think you just have to experiment.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

PSP: To do what's medically recommended or respect my mother's wishes? Advice needed.

Hi Again, I am in need of advice. My mother has PSP and is now having trouble swallowing even...
Callunas profile image

Not sleeping

My mum has PSP which is very hard in itself to take care with. Sleeping has become a big issue. The...

Struggling a bit here

No Marie Curie nurses for two weeks now as they have had an influx of palliative care...
Georgepa profile image

Sleep deprivation!

Morning everyone. Just wondering how other loved ones with PSP sleep during the night... I care for...
Kelly55 profile image

Sleeping

I am quickly running out of patience tonight. It’s only 1:15am and I have already seen to Mum 4...
Sarah1972 profile image

Moderation team

HelenPSPA profile image
HelenPSPAAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.