Sleep is essential for health. It helps with energy levels and moods. Sleep also helps with learning, memory, attention and concentration. A lack of sleep can interfere with all of those.
As adults, we need at least 7 to 8 hours sleep each night. For those with cerebral palsy, they may have additional problems to contend with in terms of sleep, such as pain and discomfort from muscle spasms, uncontrolled movements, breathing or swallowing difficulties, digestion or reflux problems, seizures and/or epilepsy.
Conventional Medication and Sleep
Having to take conventional medication to cope with any disability, may also be a contributing factor. We all deal with different things. Allergies, colds or other general health conditions, may also play a role in our inability to sleep or stay asleep. Cerebral Palsy tends to make conditions like those worse.
Sleep and Sleep Patterns
Problems with sleep can become a habit that can interfere with sleep patterns. Some people may that deal with cerebral palsy, may also find it difficult to move around in bed or simply adjusting the sheets and blankets if they fall.
There is help out there if you know to look for it from occupational therapists, physiotherapists, dieticians, orthopaedic surgeons, neurologists and general practitioners.
I fell asleep halfway through reading your journal, not due to boredom but rather due to such a quiet and peaceful day I am having.
I also had a good session of Buddhist philosophy this morning and meditation which helps me relax and get to sleep.
Thanks Brian. I'm not great with the meditation thing, but absolutely love the Buddhist philosophy. It's very similar to spiritualism.
I'm pleased meditation helps you feel relaxed and also helps you sleep.
I can certainly sympathise and understand the sleep issues. I have had problems sleeping for years and know how it affects my moods, memory and general cognitive ability.
As well, I have been through times where I slept so poorly I felt physically ill and took terribly muscle cramps and I don't have Cerebral Palsy. At the time they said I had Fibromyalgia, but I'm still not sure on that one.
Have you tried melatonin as a natural sleep remedy? It works for me sometimes.
Thanks Lisa. No, I haven't tried Melatonin. I'm not sure whether it's available in the UK.
You're right about sleep. A lack of sleep can affect our mood, memory and general cognitive ability. Eventually sleep deprivation will make us ill.
I was going to mention the Melatonin for a natural sleep remedy and see that someone already mentioned it. I hope you can catch up on your sleep, sometimes try and nap.
I know it helps me get me through my day. Herbal sleepy time tea also helps a lot. Good luck with this.
Thanks Maria. I'm pleased Melatonin helps you too. I do tend to take a nap during the day and feel that helps.
I've heard it said naps are good for us, so it's now legitimate and we shouldn't feel bad.
I can definitely relate. As I get older, a good night's sleep becomes more illusive.
Yes quite. I agree with you.