Sleep - Obsession, A Racing Mind and Chronic Lyme

Last night was a mess. I took my Mepron and my last antibiotic too late in the evening - turning my stomach into a tight knot. I accidentally double dosed my Tramadol. (I need to get a pill dispenser with a timer) I accidentally consumed caffeine last night and that was the final straw.

I am trying Amitriptyline and most of the time it works but occasionally it causes insomnia. Amitriptyline is prescribed in low doses to produce deep sleep. It has also been studied for other effect such as boosting T-Cell count and decreasing inflammation. So it is important to me that I give this drug a real chance. This is my second attempt to get on it. My first attempt was thwarted by insomnia.

I laid awake until midnight. I did some proactive things last night: I did not let my mind race. I put on my head phones and turned on my ipod and did an hour of relaxation exercises. (I am still looking for a better relaxation exercise CD if you have suggestions) Next I listened to relaxation music until I fell asleep.

People like me with Chronic Lyme often have a racing mind. We develop an obsession with the disease. We can brood for hours at a time - angry at the world because we are sick. Depression sets in. Lyme is worthy of our anger and outrage, it is worthy of depression and obsession. However it needs to be channeled. The middle of the night is not the right time for it. Lack of sleep will only make us sicker.