sleep deprivation

Im waiting for my referral for the Mayo clinic but in the meantime I think Im going crazy... I am now experiencing new levels of sleep deprivation. Ever since my ablation, PM implant, and paralyzed phrenic nerve I haven't been able to lay flat. Now, two months later i've been able to accomodate my body for a little sleep...I sstill wake up numerous times every night in pain and struggling to breathe.
Tonight however, I went to bed but woke up gasping for air and in worse pain than childbirth! I couldn't breathe...the pain was wrapping around my back and into my chest, I felt like I was smothering. I still feel the pain but not as bad since Im back in the recliner but I am feeling nauseated now. Im afraid to go to the emergency room becuase they will have me wait for hours and then send me home knowing nothing more and feeling just as bad. But at the same time, this is the worst pain i've felt...
has anyone else experienced this or anything like it?

6 Comments

I am so sorry that you are experiencing

by janetinak - 2010-11-18 02:11:56

this. I realize that you have other diagnosed problems but have you been checked for sleep apnea also. Waking uo gasping is an indication of sleep apnea & I have had that. Now after sleep study using CPAP machine & it is so much better. Didn't have pain tho maybe sleep study doctor will help.

Janet













no sleep apnea

by ambers - 2010-11-18 02:11:57

I don't have sleep apnea just that when I lay down my diaphragm pushes up and I can't get enough air in my lungs. The pulmomary doctors thought about putting me on the machine but they are also considering putting a pacer in my diaphragm. Im so confused and worried because I can't do anything about it if Im asleep... But I am having so many issues related to it that I think Im going to ask to get the machine just so I can sleep...Its almost 1am here and I have to work at 7...im definitely not going to be on my A game tomorrow :(

Mayo

by Island Girl - 2010-11-18 10:11:28

You don't need a referral to get into the Mayo Clinic. There is something about having a referral if you are already a patient of the clinic. You can even arrange for an appointment on line. Send it and somebody will call you back and arrange for the appointment. I have been going to Rochester, MN for many years.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/becomingpat-rst/appointments.html

Why wait?

by Heidiglassmeyer - 2010-11-18 11:11:44

I would take Island Girls advice and take matters into your own hands. Sounds like you are very uncomfortable and frightened. It's worth a try to get an appt. instead of waiting for a referral. I can't imagine what you are going through. Hang in there and hope you can be seen soon.

Take care,
Heidi

gosh..

by Pookie - 2010-11-19 02:11:53

I think I'd take Cabg Patch's info and Island Girl's and get to the Mayo as fast as possible. It is true, you can make your own appointment, you don't have to be referred. I was there in 2007 and the way they treat patients blew my mind...they are the most compassionate bunch of human beings I have ever met. They take time with you and answer all your questions and explain things....it was just so opposite of what I had ever experienced being tangled in my medical system for 3 yrs at the time before I went.

You're a person there, not just a number.

Good luck.

Pookie

Thanks

by ambers - 2010-11-19 08:11:27

Thanks everyone...I have to have a referral for my insurance to pay for the visit. Unfortunately my appointment isn't until February, my doctor is sending my to the Iowa clinic next week for the same testing that they will do at Mayo...the only thing is that all of this is not going to do anything for me because there is no medicine for a raised diaphragm...does anyone else ever feel like maybe this fight isn't worth it? Im really starting to feel that way

You know you're wired when...

Your license plate reads “Pacer4Life”.

Member Quotes

My pacemaker is intact and working great.