Re: Insomnia's effects

Posted By CCF neuro MD on December 10, 1997 at 12:47:44:

In Reply to: Insomnia's effects posted by D. McNamara on November 23, 1997 at 19:57:43:







: : I am wondering if the untreated chronic insomnia I've had for the past 20 years (I just realized I should get help) might be the cause of the following:
I have headaches, muscle tension, increasing physical weakness, upset stomach, excessive stomach acid, discomfort eating alternating with extreme hunger, excessive thirst and urination, and more recently skipped heart beats (Premature Atrial Contractions)-- increasing in frequency, inability to cope with the physical and emotional stresses of a 40 hour a week job (haven't had one for a year), inability to cope with minor irritations, "stress attacks" after overdoing it either emotionally or physically in which I end up in bed with the above symptoms for days, unable to function, and an uncomfortable, painful, restless feeling in my muscles (as if my blood was poisoned or deficient?).
I have been tested for thyroid (standard blood test), hypoglycemia/diabetes, mitral valve prolapse, ulcer, some allergies (not completed) etc. and all my doctors for the past 10-15 years have said I am the healthiest person they've seen. I also have an excellent diet & consume no caffeine. I do live in the city and am exposed to air pollution.
I lived with insomnia for so long, I didn't think about it except as another possible "symptom"--but I am down to about 3-5 hours per night now before waking for 3-5 hours.
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Dear John,
Chronic Insomnia can cause a variety of physical complaints due to sleep deprivation. Also many physical and psycological
problems can cause insomnia. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish betweemn the cause and effect.
befor any physical complaint is attributed to insomnia, other more serious comditions need to be ruled out.
For example if you have irregular heart beat, an underlying heart disease need to be looked for.
It seems you have a lot of physical complaints and have been
suffering from insomnia for a long time. You are not alone. More than 3 million people
in USA suffer from insomnia. The Cleveland Clinic has an excellent sleep center which will be able to help
you in this regard. If you live in or around Cleveland area you can call
216 444-2200 to make an appointment with one of our physician specialist in
sleep medicine.