Sleep is one of the most important factors in coping with Parkinson's. I also find that changing the drug routine is liable to upset the routine. I cannot get consistent results from the same routine for more than 2 or three days in succession. One factor is the degree of physical activity. Last Friday I overdid the work and did not sleep for the entire night. I believe that the body learns to work with the meds and a change takes time to result in a new pattern. We are mostly too impatient too let the new pattern develop. I have experimented with dose and timing for about six months and now have some general guides for myself.
Timing of the drugs is also a factor. If I take the Sinemet too late the peak effect keeps me awake for hours. On the other hand, not taking enough Sinemet can delay the sleep process for at least an hour. I usually take Benedryl before retiring and that helps the relaxing process. Any excitement or worry can also inhibit the sleep process. In the period between activity and sleep the "intense shaking" occurs and it is as if the brain is focusing on the job of making the arms and legs tremble. Relaxation techniques sometimes help, at least they don't hurt.
Eating late in the day seems to have a delaying effect on using the drugs. It probably better to eat the large meal at least four hours before retiring. Just to make it more confusing a small sweet snack just at bedtime seems to help.
This is so individual that you almost have to find your own sequence and timing. Within the general rules for drugs and their effectiveness over a given time period. This area of our common problem could use more research. One person is not enough sample to create good guidelines for doctors and patients.
Regards, Bill Lawless
[Post hoc, ergo propter hoc!] a logical fallacy.
----- Original Message -----
From: Tom McCreary
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Monday, July 21, 2003 12:38 AM
Subject: new symptom
I cant sleep. After seeing a new nuero out of necesssity my drugs
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