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Help...trouble falling asleep

17 years ago

Hi,

I've been having a strange thing happen upon falling asleep. I start falling asleep and then bolt up with my heart pounding, feeling a little dizzy and have to take several deep breaths...this goes on for about an hour before I finally fall asleep. Then I sleep fairly well all night and wake up peaceful in the morning...but it's getting to the point where I dread going to sleep. Had anyone every experienced this? I am 52 years old and just missed one period in June. I had two in July and one in August. I ovulated this week...I've had panic attacks and major anxiety since June. I know this is menopause related, but don't know how I am going to live like this...I use progesterone creams, drink soy shakes and take suppliments including magnesium. stopped drinking wine since this made the anxiety worse... what else can I do?

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Comments (3)

wanda9fl
17 years ago
Hi Cindy,

The same thing used to happen to me also. I did exactly what you did...took a few deep breaths. Try elevating your head a little more when you go to bed. Our hormones become so messed up, you don't know if you're doing the right things or not. Soy was not beneficial for me. Matter of fact, it made me feel worse.

Important thing is...don't be afraid. It may take you an hour to finally get to sleep, but at least you're sleeping.

Make sure to get some exercise every day. It helps in so many ways. Just taking a walk is great. Eat well...cool it on the carbs. Spikes your sugar levels too much. And remember, you are not alone and it does get better.
cindy_pond
Original Author
17 years ago
Hi Wanda,
Thank you so much for telling me that...It's not that misery loves company, but comforting to know that what is happening to me is "normal" for my age and time of life. I never expected this. No one talks about it and my doctors are dismissive. So thank you.
cindy
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anntique
17 years ago
Cindy,
I didn't have your exact symptoms, but I have had a lot of trouble sleeping over the past few years.

A few weeks ago I decided to look at controllable physical reasons, and I cut out all caffine and spicy foods after 1 p.m., and now make sure I don't eat a heavy meal after 6.

Then, I looked at possible external reasons and decided to stop watching TV in my bedroom, and I started playing relaxation CD's at night at a very low volume (downloaded to itunes and played continuously throughout the night on my computer). I find that I don't toss and turn all night like I used to, and the music helps me drift off very quickly. I think the ocean sounds and the sound of rain and soft music help me fall asleep more quickly and keep me from waking up. I feel much more refreshed in the morning than I have in years. Just a thought. Hope this helps. Good luck. This is very frustrating, Isn't it?

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