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Jodie123's avatar
Jodie123
Member
9 years ago

Help sleeping/coping techniques

Hi All. I am currently 2 weeks post op for mastectomy and reconstruction using own tissue after DCIS diagnosis. Everything has happened so incredibly quickly. As much as I thought I was prepared for everything that was going on have been totally rocked emotionally by everything that has happened. Has anyone got any suggestions as to coping strategies for sleep. I find this is when I struggle the most. I don't regret the operation at all and have been really happy with the out come. Just feel totally unprepared for the emotional roller lasted that has been the last few weeks and just need to take back some control over my life. Thanks in advance. 
coping
dcis
emotions

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  • InkPetal's avatar
    InkPetal
    Member
    9 years ago
    I only had 1/4 the breast taken but the pain and all the rest of that mess in the first couple of months resulted in a lot of lost sleep for me, partially because my mind would roll everything over and I didn't seem to be able to stop the thinking.  I found that listening to soft instrumental music helped quiet the noise. I'd make sure I had left time for painkillers to have started working before I even tried to sleep and had a few extra propping pillows on hand for the inevitable tossing.

    Have you spoken about this with your GP? If it's driving you totally nuts it might be worth getting a sleep aid. Hope you're sleeping well right this minute!
  • Jodie123's avatar
    Jodie123
    Member
    9 years ago
    Thanks blue wren. I hope all is going well with your recovery. 
  • Bluewren's avatar
    Bluewren
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi Jodie,  can totally relate as I am nearly four weeks post right mastectomy and the night before last I couldn't believe I slept right through the night.Wondered if it was a Milo before bed but I was pretty happy. It will get better and you will be surprised at what difference even a  week makes. last week I couldn't bear too much over my skin it was so sensitive.Sleep on my back and left side at times but not right side yet. First few weeks always slept with my pink silk pillow helping my right side. Medication before bed and lots of pillows does help. Good luck with your recovery and sending hugs x
  • Jodie123's avatar
    Jodie123
    Member
    9 years ago
    Thanks heaps for the feedback Kath and Mira.  I have been really struggling to keep it together.  Was in a good place with everything prior to operation but have been struggling to sleep since which I don't think has helped the situation. Have done some meditation and will certainly try out your suggestion. Hope all goes well for your recovery.    
  • Mira's avatar
    Mira
    Member
    9 years ago
    Hi Jodie,
    I find meditation helps when my mind is racing and I cant sleep.  I have downloaded some from meditationoasis.com onto my ipod and keep it next to my bed for those times when I need it.

  • primek's avatar
    primek
    Member
    9 years ago
    Watch your caffeine intake after lunch. Try not to Google and read to much before bed...often gets the head spinning. Go to bed when tired...not before. Sleep in if you need to. Have adequate pain relief and lots of pillows. Really it's  just a part of the journey we have to get through. Things will get better. Take Care. Kath x