CP and sleep

han156

I have mild CP and have had real trouble sleeping since childhood. I'm wondering if the two are connected? Any thoughts?

Richard_Scope

Hi @han156
It has been suggested that there is a link between CP and sleep trouble. It is thought that 23% to 46% (depending on which study) of children with CP have difficulties sleeping or remaining asleep. These figures could also be similar for the adult population with CP.

Have you spoken to your GP about the issues you are having with sleep? 

han156

 Hi Richard

Thanks for your reply I haven't ever spoken to my GP, I've always just plodded on, but I'm finding that the older I get (I'm 29) the harder I'm finding it to function following particularly difficult nights. I've never considered the possibility that my CP could be the cause, and I'm wondering if there are ways to manage it if that is the case

Richard_Scope

Your first port of call should be to talk to your GP about the difficulties you are experiencing with your sleep. This should help to rule out and other potential causes.
Do you have a routine around bedtime? Sleep experts recommend staring a routine before bed. Things like avoiding caffeinated drinks after 7 pm, avoiding the use of screens in the bedroom or at least an hour before you go to bed.
Do you struggle to get to sleep or stay asleep?

April2018mom

Hello @han156.
Ask your GP to refer you to a sleep medicine doctor for more tests. They can do tests that will provide you with much more information. How much exercise are you doing? That can help bring on sleep too.