Does anyone else have similar insomnia-like symptoms?

Question

I returned from a year in Iraq over 6 months ago, but I still have serious problems falling asleep. I have to usually stay up to the point of exhaustion, even if I did the same thing the in the days prior. 4 and 5 hours of sleep are the norm. While lying in bed I have intrusive memories.
The army doctors gave me some ambien which worked temporarily, but makes me act real funny once it kicks in. Anyone else have similar issues?

Answer 1

My neighbor takes Ambien. She goes to bed early because of it but wakes up at 3 or 4AM. She doesn't get adequate hrs of restful sleep. Consequently, she's more tired the following day. and have to nap during the day.

Sleeping pills aside from being addicting are more often than not ineffective for insomnia. A lot of these pills have more side effects than benefits. You become more drowsy the following day like a hang-over.

You must have PTSD. That's why, you can not go to sleep in peace. You're always kept on alert and quite afraid for your safety. That's the peril of being asoldier who came back after a tour of duty in a war ravaged country as Iraq. The war is not very popular. Unfortunatley, a lot of young American men have died needlessly for an ungrateful country. My heart goes out to you. You need a longer time of readjustment into the civilian life.


Below are suggestions for a good night's sleep

1) Avoid stress.and anxiety.
2) Keep a clear mind.
3) Read a book.
4) Watch TV esp a boring talk show.
5) Try to develop a regular habit of going to bed on a routine basis.
6) Avoid intensive exercise just before bedtime. Do not go to bed overhausted.
7) Take a relaxing warm bath before hitting the sack.
8) Try meditation and yoga and prayers.
9) Avoid caffeine such as coffee and sodas just before going to bed.
10) Drinking warm milk; chocolate or decaffeinated green tea would help
11) Listen to radio, CD, MP3 or soothing music.
12) If unable to sleep, do not look at the clock. You'll become more anxious. And the harder you try, the more you will be unable to sleep.
13) Go computer surfing. Go to this YA and participate.
14) Develop a hobby.
15) Make a specific list of things to do.

Answer 2

Alot of people have these symptoms. Unfortunately for the armed forced, your resources are limited. Ambien is a great temporary form of relief, however, for long term issues,and without the use of Rx drugs, your best bet is to use relaxation techniques such as herbal teas or meditation. I know that sounds like something a hippy would say, but I have suffered from sleep deprivation-and have tried everything in the good dr's book. Sometimes background sounds help. Use a fan, or a low volume radio, or one of those little trickling water fountains. Try not to eat before going to bed, it can cause sleep disturbances, even bizaare dreams. Maybe even a warm shower before bed. Make sure it's quiet for at least a half an hour before turning in. I hope this helps and Thank you for protecting us.

Answer 3

When you stop eating something all of a sudden, that's a good sign you are pregnant. Like coffee, it's as if you just don't enjoy it anymore.Personally, I don't think you are pregnant. I get insomnia two days before my period too. Also, when you are pregnant, your boobies aren't a little sore they are very sore(not just the nipple itself). You know when you are pregnant. My skin felt so soft and smooth on my arms when I was pregnant. You sleep real well too. You feel like you have God with you; it's hard to explain in words. Do you have insomnia because you are worried you are pregnant?

Answer 4

Ah, so is that why you're up so late now? :-)
Ya know, I'm no doctor, but seems to me that you need something more intensive than just a sleeping pill. I'm sure going to Iraq was very traumatic and can wreak havoc on your brain and emotions. I would suggest some counseling, even if it's just self-help books. You might want to talk with the Army doc about some anti-depressants, too, to see if they're right for you (hmm...sounded eerily like a commercial)...
A family member of mine took Ambien CR one time and totally flipped out on it. He couldn't sleep, he thought the roof was caving in, it made him see objects that weren't there, made him shake...and it dang sure didn't help him sleep!
4 of 5 hours of sleep a night is obviously not enough. I believe some more serious intervention is in order.
Please take care of yourself...and thanks for everything you sacrificed to make me safer. :-)

Answer 5

Clonazepam might work. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can have an effect. It may help to see a therapist and a Psychiatrist. Losing sleep isw not something to play with especially if it is PSTD related. Also pray.

Answer 6

You might have stress induced insomnia... I have that a lot.

The stress that is inducing it may be related to PTSD. You should talk to your doctor about that possibility.

Answer 7

I'm really sorry for your problems,I suggest you ask your doctor for a different sleeping pill,maybe Restoril.btw,thanks for keeping us safe.