[Terence]

I have had a Parkinsons tremor in my left arm and hand for about six or seven years. My wife says she knows when I am asleep because the tremor completely stops. I too can feel it go as I drift off to sleep. I have yet to find a full explanation for this. The intensity of the tremor gradually increased but stabilized about a year ago. I often wonder what chemical changes occur in the brain when sleeping which may affect Parkinsons symptoms.
I also have severe lower back pain problems and all drugs fail to reduce the pain. I am told that none of my back pain is Parkinson related, as PD does not cause back pain.
I have a problem turning in bed and it is very difficult finding a comfortable position to sleep. I would normally wake at least once an hour, and often would not sleep at all, either lying on the floor or sitting on a sofa most of the night. About a year ago my consultant prescribed Melatonin every night. Here in the UK Melatonin can normally only be used for a few days to overcome jet lag, but for those with Parkinsons it can be prescribed more long term. At present I can only sleep on my left side with my left shoulder half flat on the bed and my legs straight, but I do sleep for longer using Melatonin.
My consultant says he can do little to help with tremors, but may be my tremor stabilized when I started taking Melatonin. I don’t know, but I do not want to stop taking it to find out.
It would be interesting to hear wider views on:
• Why does my tremor stop when I am asleep?
• What other symptoms change when you sleep (eg. drooling)?
• What sleeping chemicals / hormones might help when you are awake?
• Any Melatonin effects on tremor?
• Turning and getting comfortable in bed
• Choosing the best mattress.
• Can Parkinsons cause lower back pain?
• Are any of these issues related?
• Any really useful links?