problems dropping off

[firewatch]

Hi guys, im experiencing real trouble dropping off to sleep at night, im mean i am really tired but as soon as i go to bed i cant sleep.
Its not been a problem the last few nights as i have been on my own but the other half is back this avo (YAY!!!) and i dont want to disturb/worry him.
I think it to do with some new medicine im on its driving me crackers.

[Eve]

What is the new medication you're on?

[firewatch]

Lansoprazole, and I am really not liking the side effects.

[JonnyBoy12]

Well, lie at the very edge of your bed, and you will soon drop off!

Sorry to make light of this problem, but I think if I knew the answer to this I would be a millionaire. Some say don't drink tea or coffee after midday, some say always leave the window open for air, some say sleep in a darkened room, and others say don't worry about anything as this will keep you awake.

There are other methods for sleeping which I would not be allowed to post on this family site!

[firewatch]

I know of what you speak LOL!
I dont drink caffeine cant leave the window open as i would be kept awake by the bats, yes bats!
the room is really dark, the only noise we have is downstairs tv which can be incredibly loud when amplified by the bed base.
I triead playing a sheep counting game the other night to try and sleep but that did not work either!

[Eve]

There are different types of these kind of drugs so it you don't have any luck tolerating it better then there are other possibilities.

I was on it but have now changed to a stronger one as had another ulcer.

Are you taking it for acid reflux or an ulcer?

Try having the head of your bed tilted slightly so you're sleeping more upright.

When you you take it and how much? Could you take it first thing in the morning for the effect to wear off more by bedtime?

[firewatch]

acid reflux, i think. The doctor i saw was not my normal one, and he seemed chuffed that he managed to get a diagnosis where others hadn't.
Im taking 30mg a day first thing in the morning, which is about half 8, although it will become half six tomorrow as im back at work.
Im seeing another doctor on friday to see if it has helped which is quite good as it will mean i have had a full week of both rest and work to test the theory.
Im pretty restless as well, and cant sit for long as get pain in my joints!!!Im 22 and feel about 90.

[Eve]

What have your symptoms been and what led them to putting you on lanzoprazole?

[firewatch]

I might just try that............

[firewatch]

Basically i have been suffering for months with bouts of severe chest pains palpitations and shortness of breath, which has led me to both collapse and feint on a couple of occasions.
There is nothing wrong with the hear (thank goodness) and the chest pains are muscular skeletal.
The doctor said to me let me have a feel of your tummy (im not a kid he could have said stomach) I had just eaten my lunch and told he this he pressed quite firmly and i got a sharp pain under my ribs.
he said it was a valve not working properly and prescribed me lansoprazole.
the side effects have been uncomfortable insomnia, stomach cramps, bloating,joint pain, and general discomfort.

[Eve]

Speak to your doctor about it to see whether there are other solutions (or more short term solutions) otherwise I guess it's just weighing up which causes you more problems, the problems before or related to the medication.

According to this they are known side effects...

http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/30002943/

[firewatch]

Thanx Jenna, i was awae of some of the side effects but not all of them.
im seeing the doctor friday but if it gets worse in the meantime i will have to make an appointment sooner.
Im thinking of changing doctors to one more local to where i work, which means better access during the week.
i guess i shall have to lump it until then.....