Restless Leg Syndrome & Insomnia...sleep study anyone?

Indychick829 · 11-11-2009, 10:18 AM

Ok - so next week is my yearly appointment with my doc and I am going to ask her to recommend me to a sleep study center. I have tried EVERYTHING from melatonin and valerian root to OTC sleep aids and even drinking a glass of wine before bed (and obviously i do NOT want to rely on wine to sleep). NOTHING is helping and I am getting NO sleep.

My insomnia has gone on for YEARS (really for as long as I can remember) I'm 30 years old and I want a full night's sleep!

One thing I've been researching is "Restless Leg Syndrome". Does anyone here have this?

One issue - when I'm 'trying' to sleep is I toss and turn like crazy all night long - every single night. I DO have weird sensations in my legs which I'm constantly trying to find a "comfortable position" but can't. I'm afraid I'm going to punch my husband in the head during the middle of the night because I'm constantly punching over him during the middle of the night when I can't get comfy. I've been a tosser/turner since childhood...in fact I dated one guy years ago who refused to sleep in the same bed with me BECAUSE of my tossing...(thank god my husband is a heavy sleeper! lol).

I also have extremely sensitive feet to the point that I refuse to let anyone touch them. My husband WANTS to give me foot fubs but I can't let him. I tried getting a pedicure once, for prom in high school, it was literally torture.

so anywhoo - I'm honestly NOT one to sit and start becoming hypochondriac - believing all these things are wrong with me - but maybe it's time to say "hey, something really IS wrong"...

So I'm just really curious - have any of you ever done a sleep study? What's it like? What were your results?

I already called and insurance will cover it 100%

! yay! all I know is I NEED some sleep. I can NOT keep doing this EVERY SINGLE NIGHT - constantly trying to find something to keep me asleep.

Just wondering if anyone can give me advice or share their experience!!!

Houston Heather · 11-11-2009, 05:11 PM

You could have Neuropathy. My husband has very sensitive skin, electric shock sensations, pain, and being touched is agony.

You might want to have him check your AIC levels, to see if your sugars are OK. Diabetes is probably the leading cause of neuropathy.

My husband has to take antiseizure medicine to help with the sensations. Fortunately, the only side effect has pretty much cured his insomnia. He always gets at least a few to several hours of sleep after taking his gabapentin (brand name Neurontin).

If we didn't already have separate bedrooms (he has been an insomniac his whole life, and was always waking me up!), we would have had to get them after this.

Indychick829 · 11-12-2009, 06:00 AM

thanks for that link, heather! I know I am NOT full blown diabetic (been tested, was diagnosed Insulin Resistant, have that under control now with lowcarb!) but the idea of Neuropathy is interesting. As far as being sensitive - it's mianly just my feet that I absolutely can NOT have people touch...but I will def. be researching it before my doc's appt wednesday!

Lillianna · 11-12-2009, 01:52 PM

Hi Indychick (fellow insomnia sufferer)

In desperation I had a sleep study done about two years ago... In my case (this is probably true of most sleep studies) they are only looking for sleep apnea so they can give you a CPAP machine. They even measure you for the CPAP machine before you go to sleep--so they can put the order in the next day... I guess since they put wires on my legs they could have also been looking for restless leg syndrome.

The sleep study was awful --After lying there, barely able to move because of all the wires, for 6 hours, I dozed a little bit between 4:00 am and 5:00. They said it was Stage 1 sleep and I didn't have any apnea episodes, but because I was never in a deep sleep they couldn't say I didn't have it--I never considered that I have sleep apnea--I barely even snore anymore since losing weight. I just wanted to know Why I Can't Sleep!

(I will say that the room was comfortable; just like a hotel. The attendant is in an adjoining room. My fear that a team of people would be watching me all night through a one-way window was unfounded

)

When I had my follow-up appt with the "sleep specialist" (what a joke) she had no answers for my insomnia and offered me an Rx for Ambien, which I'd already tried. They should really call it a Sleep Apnea Study.

Have you looked into hormonal issues as the cause? My latest theory is that my insomnia might be caused by estrogen dominance; I'm using progesterone cream to see if it helps. I slept a wonderful 5.5 hours last night --that's really good for me. Both too much estrogen, and too little estrogen can cause insomnia.

I think I read that magnesium can help with restless leg syndrome...

Unless you suspect sleep apnea might be an issue, you should make it clear to your doctor that you're looking for the cause of your insomnia--So you won't waste your time if that is the only purpose of their study...

Good luck... You have my sympathy!

kristina · 11-12-2009, 02:33 PM

I have it. I am on a small dose of generic Requip (ropinorole).

I am not sure that it helps. I have been a tosser for a long time. I also have apnea. My original test found I quit breathing 70 times/hour...more than once per minute. I am on CPAP, but still have some leg movement. I was low on iron and sometimes that can cause restless legs. I am taking supplements of iron to keep a good level in my system. I was tested for this, you shouldn't supplement without being tested. Maybe they can do this at your appointment?

Houston Heather · 11-12-2009, 02:35 PM

Indy, that's the wierd thing about my husband - it is worst at his waist and feet. Somewhat bad torso. Pretty bad, back. He leans forward when we are in a vehicle, so the seat doesn't "Rub against my back". Moderate on his arms and legs. It can definitely be "patchy".

The worst part of all the testing, and if you have decent coverage please ask for referral to a neurologist; they stuck an electrified needle into his limbs. He kept asking when would they insert the needle?

The testing came back "Peripheral Neuropathy" - he had a bad reaction to an antibiotic. His flavors were really messed up, and he still can't eat chicken or turkey.

CherylB · 11-12-2009, 03:59 PM

I am a long-time sufferer of insomnia. I don't know why, but it may just be my internal clock. Some people just function differently than others. I had always worked nights, because of it.

I have taken Ambien for approx. 5 years and it works wonders. Although it isn't something you get addicted to, you will become reliant on it. When I run out, I don't sleep. Period.

Sleep studies are useless if you know you won't be able to fall asleep during one. I have never done it, because they won't allow you to take your sleep meds before the test. So, how will they know what I do in my sleep on a normal night at home? Beats me.

So, I would suggest giving Ambien a try. And if you are having "weird sensations" in your legs, that sounds like restless leg, as you suspected. They have meds for that, too.

Good luck with finding some solutions to your sleep problem. The truth is, you may never know what is causing it.

Just an afterthought, try swearing off of all caffeine. It will help, for sure.

Indychick829 · 11-12-2009, 04:38 PM

wow. thank you all for the responses!!! first off - the caffeine. The only thing I drink with caffeine in it is Tea. I LOVE my tea. I think I will try maybe not drinking some for a few days and see if that changes anything...otherwise asides from tea I only drink water, low-carb beer and on a very rare occasion, wine. I DO also drink green smoothies made from coconut milk in the morning. On the weekends I do drink coffee - but only in the morning for breakfast and only 1 cup. but good theory, I will try to maybe ONLY drink water and my coconut milk for a while...

as for ambien - i KNOW it helps many people but part of me just doesn't want to become reliant on anything...course my husband keeps telling me, "well, you're not relying on anything right now and is THAT helping?" so yeah...again - will be talking to my doc.

heather - as for my feet - they're so sensitive that seriously - no joke, I will scream absolute bloody murder if anyone even goes near them. just the THOUGHT of someone touching my feet makes me want to jerk them around making sure no one IS touching them. i would DEF. know if someone was putting a needle in them! lol. but I am def. bringing THIS up to my doc as well (along with the insomnia and possible RLS).

now - i did find out that my maternal grandmother WAS diagnosed with RLS and my mom thinks she may have it too. the more and more I read about it - I truly think I have it - whether it's the cause of my insomnia or not - it's something I want looked at.

Lilliana - one thing, too, that I have an "issue" with as far as my hormones go - and I THINK from what I've read this is a side effect of a low-carb diet...this may be TMI but well - I'm on birth control pills (not the tmi, lol) - and during the second week of my pack I usually get a very light period - BUT I also get my "normal" period the week I'm supposed to, as well.

So i dunno - I obviously DON'T want to start making a list of things thinking I have everything - but obviously there is SOMETHING wrong.

so all I can do is try and see!

Chelveston · 11-12-2009, 08:06 PM

Both my Dad and bil have sleep problems and RLS. They both started taking magnesium before bed (starting at 200 mg and working toward 600mg of chelated magnesium). Even at the low dose, they both are sleeping better.

OhLucy · 11-12-2009, 08:36 PM

Hi people I don't know~ This is all very interesting. I don't sleep much either. I've only recently started taking calcium, which is supposed to help, and I've got some with magnesium, so I think I'll take that one instead. I get up so tired sometimes that I have to shove myself through the day and then sometimes at about 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. I want so badly to take a nap, but I can't really nap either. I'm hoping that as I start losing weight I'll be more comfortable and can sleep better. We'll see. I have no answer what so ever. I just wanted to be involved in the conversation.

Lucy

kristina · 11-12-2009, 09:43 PM

They gave me an Ambien at two of the most recent sleep studies

Doesn't affect the results from what I've been told. The more sleep studies a person has, the easier to sleep through them. My first one was sheeeeeer torture

"please sleep on your back" is what they told me before my first one. I can't sleep on my back, so I stayed awake till about 1:30...they came in and told me to roll over, and I instantly went to sleep

Quote:

Originally Posted by CherylB

I am a long-time sufferer of insomnia. I don't know why, but it may just be my internal clock. Some people just function differently than others. I had always worked nights, because of it.I have taken Ambien for approx. 5 years and it works wonders. Although it isn't something you get addicted to, you will become reliant on it. When I run out, I don't sleep. Period.Sleep studies are useless if you know you won't be able to fall asleep during one. I have never done it, because they won't allow you to take your sleep meds before the test. So, how will they know what I do in my sleep on a normal night at home? Beats me.So, I would suggest giving Ambien a try. And if you are having "weird sensations" in your legs, that sounds like restless leg, as you suspected. They have meds for that, too.Good luck with finding some solutions to your sleep problem. The truth is, you may never know what is causing it. Just an afterthought, try swearing off of all caffeine. It will help, for sure.

kristina · 11-12-2009, 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lillianna

Hi Indychick (fellow insomnia sufferer)

In desperation I had a sleep study done about two years ago... In my case (this is probably true of most sleep studies) they are only looking for sleep apnea so they can give you a CPAP machine. They even measure you for the CPAP machine before you go to sleep--so they can put the order in the next day... I guess since they put wires on my legs they could have also been looking for restless leg syndrome. The sleep study was awful --After lying there, barely able to move because of all the wires, for 6 hours, I dozed a little bit between 4:00 am and 5:00. They said it was Stage 1 sleep and I didn't have any apnea episodes, but because I was never in a deep sleep they couldn't say I didn't have it--I never considered that I have sleep apnea--I barely even snore anymore since losing weight. I just wanted to know Why I Can't Sleep! (I will say that the room was comfortable; just like a hotel. The attendant is in an adjoining room. My fear that a team of people would be watching me all night through a one-way window was unfounded

) When I had my follow-up appt with the "sleep specialist" (what a joke) she had no answers for my insomnia and offered me an Rx for Ambien, which I'd already tried. They should really call it a Sleep Apnea Study.
!

The wires on the legs is specifically to pick up on limb movement. Every sleep study has these to look for movement of your legs. I don't have RLS, but do have PLM Periodic Limb Movement at night. They are 2 different things really....my sleep studies all showed my legs moving a fair amount, keeping me awake periodically during the night...Even if the CPAP covers my apnea, I'm still tired when I'm moving around a lot at night.

Indychick829 · 11-13-2009, 05:35 AM

wow - again thank you for all your responses! it's great to find out so many other's experiences. I am actually looking forward to talking to my doc and doing a sleep study. I just want SOME one to tell me I'm not crazy - ya know?

and heather - I have been researching the neuropathy and will be bringing this up to my doc as well - shoot - I've been sitting at my desk here at work for just a half hour and can already feel my right foot falling asleep - and this is "normal" to me...again I CONSTANTLY cross and uncross my legs while under my desk because I can never find a comfortable spot...so we'll see. I don't want to jump to conclusions and absolutely say "yup - THAT'S what's wrong with me..." but i just have so many symptoms that it's gotta be SOMETHING that can be treated so that I'm at least COMFORTABLE if nothing else.

kristina · 11-13-2009, 07:02 AM

Yep. See your doctor.

If you do do a sleep study, ask for ambien. It reallllly helped the night of my study. And, don't worry about the wires. I just moved around anyway. They're on good, you don't have to worry about them. Also, the sleep center I used had a lamp. I read till I was ready for sleep, then turned it out...and they started the study. It was the best one I'd ever had

Even if you don't sleep ALL night long, they usually get enough data to make some type of diagnoses. You could have more than one thing going on as well. RLS and other factors that cause the numbness. Something else....are you doing low-carb still? I noticed when I was heavily into ketosis...sometimes I had difficulty sleeping. Just something to think about. Not sure what it was about

CherylB · 11-13-2009, 03:25 PM

I'm trying to copy and paste something here, but it's not working. If you google "bed cradle" and click on "images", you'll see what I'm trying to show you.

With your extreme sensitivity in your feet, this little device might just help you to get more comfortable in bed. It just makes a tent over your feet, to keep all the bedding off. It's designed for people who need to relieve pressure from their lower extremities, and this just might work for you.

Look into it! Maybe your Dr can order one for you, too. It might be covered by insurance that way.

Good luck and sweet dreams!

Houston Heather · 11-13-2009, 03:28 PM

Yeah, see your doc. You can develop it for unknown reasons, and people who don't have good sensation in their feet are at risk of amputations... or getting stuck on heavy-duty pain meds for the pain!

Fortunately, Ron is well controlled with gapapentin (brand name: Neurontin) and over the counter Tylenol 2x a day.

I'll be praying for an accurate diagnosis on that.

Crohnie · 11-13-2009, 09:06 PM

Mirapex has been a LIFE saver for me. I developed RLS after Chemo and radiation and they do not know why

Indychick829 · 11-14-2009, 05:25 AM

well - my doc appt is still not til wednesday - but the last few nights have just been so much more annoying - sleep wise - as now I KNOW what my issue is...and, of course - not being ABLE to sleep (well, honestly getting maybe a total of 3 hours in between waking up during the night) - just KNOWING when I AM tossing and turning makes me so frustrated during the middle of the night ... ugh.

It could also be because I'm a lot more conscious of it - but I am 100% sure now that RLS is the problem. Last night, while on the couch - for example -, we're laying there watching TV and every few minutes my legs just keep twitching. AND this IS something I've always done, but obviously never really thought about it a lot til the last few days in thinking that RLS is the problem...but that's how I am a lot. I'll be laying here on the couch and CONSTANTLY have to move my legs or sorta twitch them around because it's just SO uncomfortable to lay there and not move. I honestly can't tell you how long I've done this - but it IS something I've done for a VERY long time.

I just wish my doc's appt was sooner - but I already moved it up to this wednesday from December 9th!

Indychick829 · 11-18-2009, 07:25 AM

So i went into the doc this morning and after talking with her - first off my sleep study is getting scheduled for either this friday or saturday!!! i'll know today exactly which night i'll be going.

she absolutely agrees that it sounds like RLS.

As for the feet thing - she thinks I may be anemic (yup even with ALL the meat I eat on atkins! lol) - which makes sense because I also have a lot of hairloss too...so she pulled 3 vials of blood and will be doing a few different tests on me - including a full CBC (complete blood count) to see if I have enough red blood cells and if I truly AM anemic...

anyone know anything about anemia?

Houston Heather · 11-18-2009, 04:32 PM

It can be caused by 2 things; your body is not making red blood cells, or your body is losing blood somehow.

Anemia - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

More than you ever, ever wanted to know about your blood!

I can run a little anemic at times because I am a regular blood donor.

Indychick829 · 11-18-2009, 05:45 PM

actually - where I work, I work with a lot of med techs - and so I asked one girl (a hematologist who has anemia herself) and she gave me a bit more information on it...
also - from what I've read - anemia actually makes RLS WORSE! so it's like "greaaaaaaaaat". lol.

didn't get a call today about WHEN my sleep study will be - but i'm sure i'll get a call tomorrow (if not, i'll call in the afternoon)...cuz it should be either friday or saturday.

Crohnie, I read a lot about Mirapex and it sounds VERY promising - but the side effects are scary - mainly the weight gain and compulsive gambling thing...course - more than anyone - I should know that side effects only affect SOME people and not ALL. and I've read a LOT about mirapex on how it's a "miracle drug" as well. so we shall see!!!

Houston Heather · 11-18-2009, 05:50 PM

According to my lithium insert...

I hope you find the answers, and something that works for you.

kristina · 11-18-2009, 06:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Indychick829

So i went into the doc this morning and after talking with her - first off my sleep study is getting scheduled for either this friday or saturday!!! i'll know today exactly which night i'll be going.

she absolutely agrees that it sounds like RLS.As for the feet thing - she thinks I may be anemic (yup even with ALL the meat I eat on atkins! lol) - which makes sense because I also have a lot of hairloss too...so she pulled 3 vials of blood and will be doing a few different tests on me - including a full CBC (complete blood count) to see if I have enough red blood cells and if I truly AM anemic...

anyone know anything about anemia?

So glad you have a doctor that seems to be helping you with this, and might know some answers. I was low on ferritin evidently (level of 24, which is low I guess). I was also low on Atkins eating meat. go figure

I am still puzzled as to the connection between low iron and restless legs, but hey, if they have a cause now, there's help for you!

Take care and hopefully, you will be able to take an Ambien the night of the sleep study. Don't worry about how much sleep you get, try to relax. I am so used to sleeping with stuff (CPAP, hose, mask, noise) almost nothing at the sleep study bothers me any more

If you have any questions about the sleep study process, just ask and I can try to help you

kristina · 11-18-2009, 06:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Indychick829

actually - where I work, I work with a lot of med techs - and so I asked one girl (a hematologist who has anemia herself) and she gave me a bit more information on it...
also - from what I've read - anemia actually makes RLS WORSE! so it's like "greaaaaaaaaat". lol.

didn't get a call today about WHEN my sleep study will be - but i'm sure i'll get a call tomorrow (if not, i'll call in the afternoon)...cuz it should be either friday or saturday.

Crohnie, I read a lot about Mirapex and it sounds VERY promising - but the side effects are scary - mainly the weight gain and compulsive gambling thing...course - more than anyone - I should know that side effects only affect SOME people and not ALL. and I've read a LOT about mirapex on how it's a "miracle drug" as well. so we shall see!!!

You could take Requip? Not sure about Mirapex, or if they're the same type of medication

I guess Parkinson's patients take a higher dose of the Requip. I haven't had any side effects from the Requip so far.

Houston Heather · 11-18-2009, 07:20 PM

I'm glad I saw you, Kristina.

Indychick829 · 11-18-2009, 08:46 PM

kristina - i'm not sure WHICH med they'll put me on - possibly requip - all i care about is not tossing and turning like a fish out of water at night and actually being able to get sleep! lol.

so we shall see.

all i know is i LOVE my doc's office. i actually spoke to a nurse practitioner today - but she TOTALLY gets all my symptoms and was so willing to help - PLUS my doc (when i do see her...) SHE'S the one who told me to do atkins!

will continue to post more once i find out about my sleep study!

Indychick829 · 11-20-2009, 12:56 PM

very excited - TONIGHT is my sleep study!!! I went in on wednesday, they were supposed to call me back ON wednesday...so i was patient - called yesterday (thursday), left a message, no call back...so I called them this morning and they were like "yeah, we were supposed to, but someone mis-filed your paperwork" gee thanks! ugh.

so anyways they called and set it up for tonight! so we shall see!!

kristina · 11-20-2009, 05:14 PM

Hopefully, you are getting all set up and relaxed

kristina · 11-20-2009, 09:06 PM

And, now, I hope you are peacefully sleeping

Indychick829 · 11-21-2009, 07:16 AM

well it is 10:00 a.m. saturday morning - my study went well. I slept like I "normally" do - tossing and turning - woke up at least 3 or 4 times...she asked me when I woke up of the 6 hours that I was in bed, how many hours of sleep I think I got - and I told her maybe about 3.5 to 4 hours total. I absolutely woke up a few times during the night (but no alarm so didn't know what TIMES I woke up). Totally tossed and turned all night long - like normal! So overall, I do think it went well.

The website said it'll be about 2 weeks til my doc gets the results and then from there the doc'll call me.

I just REALLLY hope - now that I've done my research on it - that they will give me one of the medications they have out there for RLS. So now it's just a waiting game!

11-11-2009, 10:18 AM	#1
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	Restless Leg Syndrome & Insomnia...sleep study anyone? Ok - so next week is my yearly appointment with my doc and I am going to ask her to recommend me to a sleep study center. I have tried EVERYTHING from melatonin and valerian root to OTC sleep aids and even drinking a glass of wine before bed (and obviously i do NOT want to rely on wine to sleep). NOTHING is helping and I am getting NO sleep. My insomnia has gone on for YEARS (really for as long as I can remember) I'm 30 years old and I want a full night's sleep! One thing I've been researching is "Restless Leg Syndrome". Does anyone here have this? One issue - when I'm 'trying' to sleep is I toss and turn like crazy all night long - every single night. I DO have weird sensations in my legs which I'm constantly trying to find a "comfortable position" but can't. I'm afraid I'm going to punch my husband in the head during the middle of the night because I'm constantly punching over him during the middle of the night when I can't get comfy. I've been a tosser/turner since childhood...in fact I dated one guy years ago who refused to sleep in the same bed with me BECAUSE of my tossing...(thank god my husband is a heavy sleeper! lol). I also have extremely sensitive feet to the point that I refuse to let anyone touch them. My husband WANTS to give me foot fubs but I can't let him. I tried getting a pedicure once, for prom in high school, it was literally torture. so anywhoo - I'm honestly NOT one to sit and start becoming hypochondriac - believing all these things are wrong with me - but maybe it's time to say "hey, something really IS wrong"... So I'm just really curious - have any of you ever done a sleep study? What's it like? What were your results? I already called and insurance will cover it 100% ! yay! all I know is I NEED some sleep. I can NOT keep doing this EVERY SINGLE NIGHT - constantly trying to find something to keep me asleep. Just wondering if anyone can give me advice or share their experience!!! __________________ Read my story / blog @: Livin' and Lovin' the Low Carb Life People. Eating. Tasty. Animals FAT DOES NOT MAKE YOU FAT! DO NOT FEAR THE FAT! Married ~26.JUNE.2010~

11-12-2009, 02:33 PM	#5
kristina Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Nov 2003 Posts: 17,110 Gallery: kristina Stats: 230(highestever)217/219/140 WOE: Intuitive Eating Start Date: August 29 2010	I have it. I am on a small dose of generic Requip (ropinorole). I am not sure that it helps. I have been a tosser for a long time. I also have apnea. My original test found I quit breathing 70 times/hour...more than once per minute. I am on CPAP, but still have some leg movement. I was low on iron and sometimes that can cause restless legs. I am taking supplements of iron to keep a good level in my system. I was tested for this, you shouldn't supplement without being tested. Maybe they can do this at your appointment? __________________ "Right now I'm having amnesia and deja vu at the same time. I think I've forgotten this before." - Stephen Wright

11-12-2009, 03:59 PM	#7
CherylB MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Connecticut Posts: 1,763 Gallery: CherylB Stats: 234.6/179.2/140 (-55.4 lbs) WOE: Atkins, baby. Start Date: October 23, 2009.	I am a long-time sufferer of insomnia. I don't know why, but it may just be my internal clock. Some people just function differently than others. I had always worked nights, because of it. I have taken Ambien for approx. 5 years and it works wonders. Although it isn't something you get addicted to, you will become reliant on it. When I run out, I don't sleep. Period. Sleep studies are useless if you know you won't be able to fall asleep during one. I have never done it, because they won't allow you to take your sleep meds before the test. So, how will they know what I do in my sleep on a normal night at home? Beats me. So, I would suggest giving Ambien a try. And if you are having "weird sensations" in your legs, that sounds like restless leg, as you suspected. They have meds for that, too. Good luck with finding some solutions to your sleep problem. The truth is, you may never know what is causing it. Just an afterthought, try swearing off of all caffeine. It will help, for sure. __________________ ((234.6)) 191.6 191 190 189.8 189 188 187 186 185 184 183 182 181 180 179

11-13-2009, 05:35 AM	#13
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	wow - again thank you for all your responses! it's great to find out so many other's experiences. I am actually looking forward to talking to my doc and doing a sleep study. I just want SOME one to tell me I'm not crazy - ya know? and heather - I have been researching the neuropathy and will be bringing this up to my doc as well - shoot - I've been sitting at my desk here at work for just a half hour and can already feel my right foot falling asleep - and this is "normal" to me...again I CONSTANTLY cross and uncross my legs while under my desk because I can never find a comfortable spot...so we'll see. I don't want to jump to conclusions and absolutely say "yup - THAT'S what's wrong with me..." but i just have so many symptoms that it's gotta be SOMETHING that can be treated so that I'm at least COMFORTABLE if nothing else. Last edited by Indychick829; 11-13-2009 at 05:45 AM..

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11-11-2009, 05:11 PM	#2
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 9,861 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/166/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	You could have Neuropathy. My husband has very sensitive skin, electric shock sensations, pain, and being touched is agony. You might want to have him check your AIC levels, to see if your sugars are OK. Diabetes is probably the leading cause of neuropathy. My husband has to take antiseizure medicine to help with the sensations. Fortunately, the only side effect has pretty much cured his insomnia. He always gets at least a few to several hours of sleep after taking his gabapentin (brand name Neurontin). If we didn't already have separate bedrooms (he has been an insomniac his whole life, and was always waking me up!), we would have had to get them after this.

11-12-2009, 06:00 AM	#3
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	thanks for that link, heather! I know I am NOT full blown diabetic (been tested, was diagnosed Insulin Resistant, have that under control now with lowcarb!) but the idea of Neuropathy is interesting. As far as being sensitive - it's mianly just my feet that I absolutely can NOT have people touch...but I will def. be researching it before my doc's appt wednesday!

11-12-2009, 01:52 PM	#4
Lillianna MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: New England Posts: 1,647 Gallery: Lillianna Stats: 233/194/150 5'6" WOE: Low Carb Start Date: Restart 1/5/09 @ 233 (highest weight 240)	Hi Indychick (fellow insomnia sufferer) In desperation I had a sleep study done about two years ago... In my case (this is probably true of most sleep studies) they are only looking for sleep apnea so they can give you a CPAP machine. They even measure you for the CPAP machine before you go to sleep--so they can put the order in the next day... I guess since they put wires on my legs they could have also been looking for restless leg syndrome. The sleep study was awful --After lying there, barely able to move because of all the wires, for 6 hours, I dozed a little bit between 4:00 am and 5:00. They said it was Stage 1 sleep and I didn't have any apnea episodes, but because I was never in a deep sleep they couldn't say I didn't have it--I never considered that I have sleep apnea--I barely even snore anymore since losing weight. I just wanted to know Why I Can't Sleep! (I will say that the room was comfortable; just like a hotel. The attendant is in an adjoining room. My fear that a team of people would be watching me all night through a one-way window was unfounded ) When I had my follow-up appt with the "sleep specialist" (what a joke) she had no answers for my insomnia and offered me an Rx for Ambien, which I'd already tried. They should really call it a Sleep Apnea Study. Have you looked into hormonal issues as the cause? My latest theory is that my insomnia might be caused by estrogen dominance; I'm using progesterone cream to see if it helps. I slept a wonderful 5.5 hours last night --that's really good for me. Both too much estrogen, and too little estrogen can cause insomnia. I think I read that magnesium can help with restless leg syndrome... Unless you suspect sleep apnea might be an issue, you should make it clear to your doctor that you're looking for the cause of your insomnia--So you won't waste your time if that is the only purpose of their study... Good luck... You have my sympathy!

11-12-2009, 02:35 PM	#6
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 9,861 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/166/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	Indy, that's the wierd thing about my husband - it is worst at his waist and feet. Somewhat bad torso. Pretty bad, back. He leans forward when we are in a vehicle, so the seat doesn't "Rub against my back". Moderate on his arms and legs. It can definitely be "patchy". The worst part of all the testing, and if you have decent coverage please ask for referral to a neurologist; they stuck an electrified needle into his limbs. He kept asking when would they insert the needle? The testing came back "Peripheral Neuropathy" - he had a bad reaction to an antibiotic. His flavors were really messed up, and he still can't eat chicken or turkey.

11-12-2009, 04:38 PM	#8
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	wow. thank you all for the responses!!! first off - the caffeine. The only thing I drink with caffeine in it is Tea. I LOVE my tea. I think I will try maybe not drinking some for a few days and see if that changes anything...otherwise asides from tea I only drink water, low-carb beer and on a very rare occasion, wine. I DO also drink green smoothies made from coconut milk in the morning. On the weekends I do drink coffee - but only in the morning for breakfast and only 1 cup. but good theory, I will try to maybe ONLY drink water and my coconut milk for a while... as for ambien - i KNOW it helps many people but part of me just doesn't want to become reliant on anything...course my husband keeps telling me, "well, you're not relying on anything right now and is THAT helping?" so yeah...again - will be talking to my doc. heather - as for my feet - they're so sensitive that seriously - no joke, I will scream absolute bloody murder if anyone even goes near them. just the THOUGHT of someone touching my feet makes me want to jerk them around making sure no one IS touching them. i would DEF. know if someone was putting a needle in them! lol. but I am def. bringing THIS up to my doc as well (along with the insomnia and possible RLS). now - i did find out that my maternal grandmother WAS diagnosed with RLS and my mom thinks she may have it too. the more and more I read about it - I truly think I have it - whether it's the cause of my insomnia or not - it's something I want looked at. Lilliana - one thing, too, that I have an "issue" with as far as my hormones go - and I THINK from what I've read this is a side effect of a low-carb diet...this may be TMI but well - I'm on birth control pills (not the tmi, lol) - and during the second week of my pack I usually get a very light period - BUT I also get my "normal" period the week I'm supposed to, as well. So i dunno - I obviously DON'T want to start making a list of things thinking I have everything - but obviously there is SOMETHING wrong. so all I can do is try and see!

11-12-2009, 08:06 PM	#9
Chelveston Senior LCF Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 452 Gallery: Chelveston Stats: Health at every size WOE: Atkins Start Date: restart Jan '09	Both my Dad and bil have sleep problems and RLS. They both started taking magnesium before bed (starting at 200 mg and working toward 600mg of chelated magnesium). Even at the low dose, they both are sleeping better.

11-12-2009, 08:36 PM	#10
OhLucy Senior LCF Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: California Posts: 496 Gallery: OhLucy Stats: 320/309/165 WOE: WW Points Start Date: Restart Aug. 6, 2010	Hi people I don't know~ This is all very interesting. I don't sleep much either. I've only recently started taking calcium, which is supposed to help, and I've got some with magnesium, so I think I'll take that one instead. I get up so tired sometimes that I have to shove myself through the day and then sometimes at about 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. I want so badly to take a nap, but I can't really nap either. I'm hoping that as I start losing weight I'll be more comfortable and can sleep better. We'll see. I have no answer what so ever. I just wanted to be involved in the conversation. Lucy

11-13-2009, 07:02 AM	#14
kristina Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Nov 2003 Posts: 17,110 Gallery: kristina Stats: 230(highestever)217/219/140 WOE: Intuitive Eating Start Date: August 29 2010	Yep. See your doctor. If you do do a sleep study, ask for ambien. It reallllly helped the night of my study. And, don't worry about the wires. I just moved around anyway. They're on good, you don't have to worry about them. Also, the sleep center I used had a lamp. I read till I was ready for sleep, then turned it out...and they started the study. It was the best one I'd ever had Even if you don't sleep ALL night long, they usually get enough data to make some type of diagnoses. You could have more than one thing going on as well. RLS and other factors that cause the numbness. Something else....are you doing low-carb still? I noticed when I was heavily into ketosis...sometimes I had difficulty sleeping. Just something to think about. Not sure what it was about

11-13-2009, 03:25 PM	#15
CherylB MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Connecticut Posts: 1,763 Gallery: CherylB Stats: 234.6/179.2/140 (-55.4 lbs) WOE: Atkins, baby. Start Date: October 23, 2009.	I'm trying to copy and paste something here, but it's not working. If you google "bed cradle" and click on "images", you'll see what I'm trying to show you. With your extreme sensitivity in your feet, this little device might just help you to get more comfortable in bed. It just makes a tent over your feet, to keep all the bedding off. It's designed for people who need to relieve pressure from their lower extremities, and this just might work for you. Look into it! Maybe your Dr can order one for you, too. It might be covered by insurance that way. Good luck and sweet dreams!

11-13-2009, 03:28 PM	#16
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 9,861 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/166/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	Yeah, see your doc. You can develop it for unknown reasons, and people who don't have good sensation in their feet are at risk of amputations... or getting stuck on heavy-duty pain meds for the pain! Fortunately, Ron is well controlled with gapapentin (brand name: Neurontin) and over the counter Tylenol 2x a day. I'll be praying for an accurate diagnosis on that.

11-13-2009, 09:06 PM	#17
Crohnie Miss Innocent Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: MA Posts: 25,596 Gallery: Crohnie Stats: 196/179/149 WOE: HCG Start Date: 07/01/10	Mirapex has been a LIFE saver for me. I developed RLS after Chemo and radiation and they do not know why

11-14-2009, 05:25 AM	#18
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	well - my doc appt is still not til wednesday - but the last few nights have just been so much more annoying - sleep wise - as now I KNOW what my issue is...and, of course - not being ABLE to sleep (well, honestly getting maybe a total of 3 hours in between waking up during the night) - just KNOWING when I AM tossing and turning makes me so frustrated during the middle of the night ... ugh. It could also be because I'm a lot more conscious of it - but I am 100% sure now that RLS is the problem. Last night, while on the couch - for example -, we're laying there watching TV and every few minutes my legs just keep twitching. AND this IS something I've always done, but obviously never really thought about it a lot til the last few days in thinking that RLS is the problem...but that's how I am a lot. I'll be laying here on the couch and CONSTANTLY have to move my legs or sorta twitch them around because it's just SO uncomfortable to lay there and not move. I honestly can't tell you how long I've done this - but it IS something I've done for a VERY long time. I just wish my doc's appt was sooner - but I already moved it up to this wednesday from December 9th!

11-18-2009, 07:25 AM	#19
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	So i went into the doc this morning and after talking with her - first off my sleep study is getting scheduled for either this friday or saturday!!! i'll know today exactly which night i'll be going. she absolutely agrees that it sounds like RLS. As for the feet thing - she thinks I may be anemic (yup even with ALL the meat I eat on atkins! lol) - which makes sense because I also have a lot of hairloss too...so she pulled 3 vials of blood and will be doing a few different tests on me - including a full CBC (complete blood count) to see if I have enough red blood cells and if I truly AM anemic... anyone know anything about anemia?

11-18-2009, 04:32 PM	#20
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 9,861 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/166/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	It can be caused by 2 things; your body is not making red blood cells, or your body is losing blood somehow. Anemia - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia More than you ever, ever wanted to know about your blood! I can run a little anemic at times because I am a regular blood donor.

11-18-2009, 05:45 PM	#21
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	actually - where I work, I work with a lot of med techs - and so I asked one girl (a hematologist who has anemia herself) and she gave me a bit more information on it... also - from what I've read - anemia actually makes RLS WORSE! so it's like "greaaaaaaaaat". lol. didn't get a call today about WHEN my sleep study will be - but i'm sure i'll get a call tomorrow (if not, i'll call in the afternoon)...cuz it should be either friday or saturday. Crohnie, I read a lot about Mirapex and it sounds VERY promising - but the side effects are scary - mainly the weight gain and compulsive gambling thing...course - more than anyone - I should know that side effects only affect SOME people and not ALL. and I've read a LOT about mirapex on how it's a "miracle drug" as well. so we shall see!!!

11-18-2009, 05:50 PM	#22
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 9,861 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/166/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	According to my lithium insert... I hope you find the answers, and something that works for you.

11-18-2009, 07:20 PM	#25
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 9,861 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/166/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	I'm glad I saw you, Kristina.

11-18-2009, 08:46 PM	#26
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	kristina - i'm not sure WHICH med they'll put me on - possibly requip - all i care about is not tossing and turning like a fish out of water at night and actually being able to get sleep! lol. so we shall see. all i know is i LOVE my doc's office. i actually spoke to a nurse practitioner today - but she TOTALLY gets all my symptoms and was so willing to help - PLUS my doc (when i do see her...) SHE'S the one who told me to do atkins! will continue to post more once i find out about my sleep study!

11-20-2009, 12:56 PM	#27
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	very excited - TONIGHT is my sleep study!!! I went in on wednesday, they were supposed to call me back ON wednesday...so i was patient - called yesterday (thursday), left a message, no call back...so I called them this morning and they were like "yeah, we were supposed to, but someone mis-filed your paperwork" gee thanks! ugh. so anyways they called and set it up for tonight! so we shall see!!

11-20-2009, 05:14 PM	#28
kristina Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Nov 2003 Posts: 17,110 Gallery: kristina Stats: 230(highestever)217/219/140 WOE: Intuitive Eating Start Date: August 29 2010	Hopefully, you are getting all set up and relaxed

11-20-2009, 09:06 PM	#29
kristina Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Nov 2003 Posts: 17,110 Gallery: kristina Stats: 230(highestever)217/219/140 WOE: Intuitive Eating Start Date: August 29 2010	And, now, I hope you are peacefully sleeping

11-21-2009, 07:16 AM	#30
Indychick829 MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Indianapolis, Indiana Posts: 1,529 Gallery: Indychick829 Stats: Highest - 217 / Lowest -160 / Current 170 & happy WOE: Maintenance - whole foods/fruits/organic meats Start Date: January 2009. Currently in Maintenance	well it is 10:00 a.m. saturday morning - my study went well. I slept like I "normally" do - tossing and turning - woke up at least 3 or 4 times...she asked me when I woke up of the 6 hours that I was in bed, how many hours of sleep I think I got - and I told her maybe about 3.5 to 4 hours total. I absolutely woke up a few times during the night (but no alarm so didn't know what TIMES I woke up). Totally tossed and turned all night long - like normal! So overall, I do think it went well. The website said it'll be about 2 weeks til my doc gets the results and then from there the doc'll call me. I just REALLLY hope - now that I've done my research on it - that they will give me one of the medications they have out there for RLS. So now it's just a waiting game!