I have been so tired for the past few months. I get just about the same amount of sleep every night and should be enough to make me feel rested but lately I just haven't felt that way. When I went to the doctor last week I was sure that my blood work would show low iron levels or something else that would explain why I was so tired and had no energy at all. But the blood work was fine. In fact everything was really good. After discussing with my doctor a few things he decided I needed to have a sleep study performed. I did that last night @ The Sleep Source in town.
I didn't really know what to expect. I was able to take my own pillows which for me, was a must. I never sleep well without my own pillows. It was a nice little room with a big comfy bed, a tv and private bath. Much like a hotel room. I got ready for bed and Crystal, the sweet and funny attendant, explained to me what all was going to happen. I didn't ever look at myself after she wired me up but I can only imagine how silly it looked. I was sure I wouldn't be able to sleep with all of those wires and things on my head, legs up my nose, etc. but I actually did sleep well. When she woke me up at 5am she came into my room and gave me the results. Yeppers....I have sleep apnea. I think she said I breath very shallow while I am asleep. I don't really remember because I was just waking up. I will go back next week where the test will be fully explained and another sleep study will be set up. They will actually adjust the mask with be fitted and depending on how it works they will adjust the amounts of air that I will need. I never even imagined I suffered from this but it explains a lot of things. I have to admit that when she told me that I do have it I felt relief. At least now we know what it is and it can be treated. I don't know how long it has been since I have had a full night's rest. I imagine when I finally have it I will be amazed. We shall see.
9 comments:
Concerning those sleep masks that assist your breathing while you sleep--there are several designs. Be sure they show you all of them. You will be able to find the one that fits you best.
Maybe that will relieve some of those vivid dreams you have, too.
I hope so. I am so ready for a good night's sleep. I don't remember what it feels like!
Lisa, I got diagnosed with sleep apnea about six months ago. I've been using a CPAP machine ever since and feel great! I had no idea I was so sleep deprived, but like you, thought I was run down. There's a great website for CPAP users, where they discuss machines and how to get used to them and everything you can think of. E-mail me anytime, if you want. My good friend got one the same time I did and we keep saying we need to start a club and have a slumber party:o)
I have a friend who swears by his sleep mask. I hope it works as well for you.
Dan
That is great that they figured it out. I know a couple people that have sleep apnea and also swear by the masks. I sure hope it works for you so you can get a good nights sleep!!
I've had mine for over 5 years. It was hard to get used to for me at first, I used it only a few hours a night. Then I got used to it, and it is comforting to me, now. I rarely (if ever) wake up in the middle of the night any more without being able to get back to sleep.
Be patient with yourself, it is an adjustment. Good luck.
I've had a relative and a friend diagnosed with sleep apnea and put on breathing machines. It changed their life, literally becaue they finally got the rest they needed to function at 100%. Hope it helps you!
I am glad that you got an answer. Hope that the solution works for you.
I had problems with sleeping and snoring, not sure apnea was involved, though I was diagnosed with diabetes. Instead of taking pills or sleeping with machines, I went on a low carb diet, lost 60 pounds and have kept it off for 3 years, with normal blood sugar. I have felt great ever since. I'm not offering this as a solution to everyone, I KNOW how hard it is to do, and I KNOW it could all come back in a month if I'm not obsessively diligent. I think eliminating a lot of carbs, though, even if I hadn't lost weight, has given me more energy. Whatever you come up with, I'll be hoping it works for you. You have a lot of grandkids to keep up with.
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