Re: Help! I can't stay asleep!
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Re: Help! I can't stay asleep!

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Posted by Sandman on July 23, 2009 at 11:06:52:

In Reply to: Help! I can't stay asleep! posted by BeckyJ N on July 23, 2009 at 00:55:05:

My guess, for the middle of the night awakenings, is related to sleep deprivation. You fall asleep at night due to the sleep deprivation load from being up the last half of the previous night and being awake during the following day. So the drive to sleep is strong.

Once you have reduced you sleep deprivation level a bit, your body's response to the central sleep apnea will take over. It doesn't like being in a state where it can't breath normally and you wake up feeling more alert than when you went to sleep after making up for some of your sleep debt. You body will prefer wake to not breathing at this time.

Long periods of REM begin about half way through the night and during REM sleep you lose your accessory muscles, that help breathing during NREM sleep, and breathing stops completely.

I could spend a lot of time talking about this, it is complex and trying to discuss it in a simple way isn't easy.

I don't believe herbs, or OTC medication will help true central sleep apnea. Some will make it worse.

You need effective treatment. Bi-level systems can be set up to closely mimic a ventilator. You can get non-fancy bi-level machine for around $1,200 from DeVilviss and Respironics, to name a couple manufacturers.

It would be setup in the timed mode so no trigger necessary for it to kick in, your breathing rate would be normal. It has worked for post polio patients when their diaphragm don't work at all during sleep.

Also check with local sleep labs. Sometimes patients want to upgrade their system and donate their used CPAP's and Bi-level machines to a sleep lab for people who need help like yourself.

Best wishes,
Sandman

Disclaimer, I am not an MD and my opinions should not be taken as medical advice. If you feel that you need assistance with medications and/or diagnosis, you should seek medical advice from a qualified physician.

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PLEASE ONLY CLICK THE SUBMIT FOLLOW UP BUTTON ONCE!!. Thanks, Sandman

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