Sleepless with MS - 09/11/07

Why I am awake at 2:00am in the morning?  Actually, I know the answer to this one.  It's because my work schedule has changed a little bit and my body is trying to adjust -- or trying to tell me to knock it off!  Sleep issues are a problem for many people with multiple sclerosis.  And occupational sleep disorders are on the rise as more American's work longer hours and non-traditional shifts.

So why don't I just go back to bed?  Well, that's the kicker.  I was in bed but woke up after only a few hours.  Many of you can relate to that.  MS makes my legs restless and my body ache, and then I just have to get up and move.  So although I'm very fatigued, my body wants to move and then my mind follows suit.

What can you do at 2:00am?  Well, nothing, if you want to try and go back to sleep right away.  If I think sleep is possible, I get up and move around a little bit but don't get on the computer or start doing housework.  I keep everything as quiet as possible and just soak in the silence.  Of course, that doesn't always work -- hence the late night discussion you see here.

Any there any benefits to being awake at 2:00am?  I've had to think about this one over the years.  I've found that I enjoy the sounds of the city as it settles into a silent slumber.  On certain nights I've listened to thunderstorms rumbling through the city, gaining in intensity until it's almost deafening, and then fading out over the plains as if it's traveling for an infinity.  And I've read thousands of books and worked hundreds of crossword puzzles, so I'm expanding my mind.  (yeah, right).

Hmm...I seem to be getting sleepy.  Maybe all this thinking and writing is a good thing at times!  Good night and sweet dreams.

Lily  :)