RestlessLegsSyndrome.Sleep-Disorders.net
caret icon Back to all discussions

Insomnia Insanity

I'm 74. Had RLS for 24 years. It is medically managed with Delta2 ligand and opioid medications. I've had insomnia for 1 year. I followed every suggestion, exercise & treatment my sleep specialist gave me, who has a special interest in RLS. Nothing helped. My doctor gave me a low-dose relaxant. It helped for a while. I've read a lot about insomnia & remedies, plus why it happens. I've stopped watching bright screens at night. Don't use an iPad or mobile in bed, no caffeine, no sugar, no alcohol, no late meals. I tried meditation, music, warm milk, chamomile, all the well-known remedies. I read a book after dinner and go to bed at 11:00 pm (per my specialist's instructions). By 3:00 am, no sleep. I drag myself out of bed around 9:30 am, feeling fatigued, depressed & fuzzy-headed. I feel as though I'm wasting my days. I have no motivation or zest for life. I have ordered low-dose melatonin & spending more time out in bright light. I'm at my wit's end. At least my RLS is controlled..., but at what cost??

  1. That's a difficult situation, , since the medications you're taking for RLS should already be making you sleepy. I wonder if you might benefit from a change in medications. Is that something you've talked with your doctor about? Thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member)

Please read our rules before posting.