Insomnia and Chronic Pain
People that struggle with daily pain will tell you that it does not end there. Often it follows them into the nighttime. The dilemma becomes just how much medication to take and when? If the person has a legitimate pain problem the amount of medication taken throughout the day is usually enough to manage the pain to prevent suffering. Next, we face the reality that once they attempt sleep the problems are usually related to; falling asleep, staying asleep and or waking throughout the night. All of which exacerbate pain. There are a few studies to support that insomnia increases pain the next day. One European study did prove that those women that kept a journal of their pain did state that they noticed an increase in their pain the day following less sleep. These women had a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia and were in the study for a period of 30 days. One study demonstrated a fifty percent increase in pain for those people who had less sleep the night before.
Remaining open to the healthcare provider and the medication options is important for consistent treatment and recovery. It is also pertinent to know that medication is not the only treatment for insomnia. Sometimes the treatment team approach can influence your growth in a positive way as it adds to the dynamics of your recovery. Results vary for each person so be open to your healthcare provider’s suggestions. Remember the best treatment plans are formulated between you and your healthcare provider. So with that in mind be honest about everything. Tell your healthcare provider what medications you are taking for pain and sleep. How are you taking the medication? Are you undertaking them or overtaking them? The more you say the more complete the picture is for your healthcare professional. It also helps them know who they are treating and how to proceed.
