[Guest]

I would like to know if there is a connected between RA and chronic insomnia. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about 5 years ago and have had difficulty getting to sleep ever since (not due to pain). Ambien helps me greatly, but doctors are leary about giving it continuously, and other drugs like antihistamines just don't work, and I have tried all kinds of natural remedies Any suggestions on what I can take?

[Guest]

There is a link between chronic pain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and insomnia. Typically it is related to pain and stiffness and the treatment involves pain medications. i agree with your physicians that sleeping pills should not be given indefinately. For my patients with insomnia and arthritis, I make sure they have pain medicine prior to bedtime and then institue good sleep habits--- no caffeine, alcohol or tobacco, a hot bath or exercise late in the day, a comfortable sleep environment and relaxation techniques prior to bedtime. Sleeping pills lose their efficacy over time, these good sleep habits don't.
[quote] I would like to know if there is a connected between RA and chronic insomnia. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about 5 years ago and have had difficulty getting to sleep ever since (not due to pain)... [/quote]