I know that fatigue is just a part of having PH, but my mom really struggles to sleep at night. She’s 85, and of course is reluctant to take additional medications. She does very little during the day, as even common tasks, like going to the bathroom and brushing her teeth make her feel like she just ran ten miles. Consequently, she naps frequently during the day.
What could I do to help her sleep better at night? (She has tried Melatonin, and that has little to no effect)
Now what I am about to say is not intended as a joke. Has your mother considered a weed gummy or edible? It helps tremendously with sleep for my husband
We have a split adjustable king sized bed. We got it about 5 years ago mainly for Vinny's GERD but it ends up that I sleep at such a high angle myself for my less severe GERD as well as now for my PH. I also sleep with my legs slightly elevated to help prevent edema. So picture me sleeping in almost a hammock like position.
We got our bed fairly cheaply at Macy's when they had a good promotion. We are very happy with it. Though Vinny thinks it's time to get new mattresses.
Before we got this bed, Vinny was using a foam wedge under his pillows but this is much better.
Heather, how do you achieve that angle in your bed for better sleep?
I just read another of your posts and see she IS on O2. So forget about the essential oils.
I take ZzzzQuil in its liquid form. It's the only thing that has helped me. I know your mom doesn't want to take medications, but none of the "natural" mushroom teas, melatonin, or anything else helped me at all.
I suffer with terrible insomnia as many PH people do.
I sleep on about a 40% incline which helps me breathe better and helps keep my O2 SATs in line. It also helps my GERD.
If your mother is NOT on O2 assist, you can try eucalyptus or lavender essential oils. Just be careful not to use them near an O2 source as the oil vapors and O2 are a volatile mixture.