Prednisone Insomnia!

When you're on Prednisone have you ever had that feeling of shakiness or the feeling of being hopped up on Sugar? That's a pretty common problem on Prednisone, it can really make you hyper! If you are feeling well that means you sure can get a lot done; housework, projects, homework... It's pretty great feeling of productivity:) However sometimes that hyper feeling can last you all day AND all night. Insomnia can be the negative aspect of your sudden spike in energy - you just can't shut your brain and body off.

How to eliminate sleepless nights:)

1. If you can, ALWAYS take your Prednisone early in the morning instead of at dinner or, worse even, before bed.

2. Don't watch TV going to bed. I know, I know, that's a tough one. Who doesn't like to watch all your favorite sitcoms on nick at nite going to bed?! But there have been TONS of studies that show watching TV going to bed can actually stimulate you - on Prednisone that's definitely not what you're going for!

3. Try to go to bed at the same time every night. This might be a slightly hard habit to form but when you get to bed at the same every night you're training your body to understand when it's time to shut off. Over time you should find that your body will adapt and you will get a much better night sleep.

4. Take an herbal product that helps with sleep. Of course, before starting to take anything, even natural products, I would talk to your doctor because there can be reactions. However, for centuries different groups of people have used natural herbs to help with sleep which include, Melatonin, hops (beer drinkers know what this is lol), wild lettuce, and Valerian. Most of these products you can find at a local Pharmacy.

5. Prescription Sedatives - if you are taking a very large dose of Prednisone or if you need to take Prednisone several times a day you might have an even harder time sleeping. If none of these ideas help you can still talk to your doctor about getting a prescription sedative. There are many out on the market at varying doses and strengths. You doctor will most likely put you on the smallest dose that will allow you to get the rest you need.

Sleeplessness can be a real problem! For many of us that have had a lot of experience with Prednisone we certainly understand how frustrating and problematic it can be to not get the rest our bodies need so if you are struggling with insomnia, please give these methods a try and give your body and mind the rest you deserve:)