At night people with Parkinson’s disease can struggle to get the sleep necessary as they are confronted with challenging symptoms making quality sleep difficult. The absence of sleep can trigger additional stress affecting the capacity to focus at home and the job, prohibiting socialization, as well as life responsibilities. Deep into night and early in the mornings the PD chat rooms on the internet are humming, attesting to sleep difficulties encounter by the Parkinson’s population.
Peaceful slumber is paramount to a healthy life, especially for those individuals who have Parkinson’s because their muscles spasm making restful sleep virtuously impossible. This shortage of sleep will only worsen the symptoms of Parkinson’s which could disturb therapy and treatment.
The following are a few Lifestyle adjustments which may be useful as sleep solutions.
By making some simple subtle modifications to your lifestyle, even with Parkinson’s disease, you can manage your sleep problems.
- Look at your medications, routine and quantity. Ask your doctor who might be able to modify your medications or prescribe different medications.
- Don’t allow yourself to sleep during the day if possible. Investigate hobbits, volunteering or social activities to keep busy. Give yourself options to napping.
- Exercise early in the day. Review you exercise program which helps mobility, stress relief and sleep. But time of day is important, morning at best and don’t exercise at night as it actually acts as a stimulate keeping you awake at night.
- Limit consumption of caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages. Stop drinking caffeinated beverages for at least six hours prior to bedtime. Minimize alcohol consumption as it can contribute sleep problems.
- Monitor fluid intake. Try to drink your 8 glasses of water at least 5 hours prior to bedtime. Before going to bed visit the bathroom one final time.
- Get into a bedtime routine. The bedroom is for sleep. If you have to read or watch television, use another room. Give your body the opportunity to relax by establishing a night time routine. These routines allow the body and mind time to adjust and prepare for sleep.
Lifestyle is a series of daily living habits and these small changes in your routine can improve sleep. If you use sleep mediations ask your Doctor as they can interfere with your other medications.
