Losing Sleep Over Chronic Pain
Getting sufficient hours of sleep, usually 7-8 hours a night, is one of the most important aspects of maintaining good overall health. But your sleep can be disturbed every night because of chronic pain. If it’s any consolation, you are suffering along with millions of Americans. Chronic pain is a very common experience that requires pain management in the general population, especially among those with poor sleep habits.
A Vicious Cycle
Think of it as a vicious cycle: Pain will affect your ability to sleep well while insufficient sleep will make the pain seem even worse. This is a common issue that is treated at any of the Healthpointe clinics (such as the clinic in Corona, near Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley).
Doctors will determine one of two things: Is sleep deprivation causing your pain or is the pain causing sleep deprivation. Your treatment will then depend on which came first – the sleep or the pain. You will also be examined for an underlying sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea, which should also be treated.
A Ray of Hope
While there may be challenges in the treatment of chronic pain and sleep disorder, most patients can find a happy ground with their doctor. These challenges include the reluctance of patients who are already on pain medication to take more medicines, and the risks for drug interactions between pain and sleep medications.
Your doctor will look at several possible treatment protocols that include many aspects, such as:
- Sleeping habits
- Bedroom environment
- Support provided by the mattress
- Diet and lifestyle habits
- Medications and their side effects
- Underlying medical conditions
The bottom line: Bring your chronic pain and sleep deprivation issues to your doctor so that you can both look at your treatment options.
Call or visit any of our clinics (such as the Garden Grove clinic near Stanton, Santa Ana, and Westminster) when you have sleep and pain issues.
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Garden Grove, which is conveniently located by Stanton, Santa Ana, and Westminster. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.