Tired and sleeping many hours a day.

by Phil MN

I just retired about 2 weeks ago. I have been walking about 2 miles a day/5 days a week for several months. But, I am sleeping for about 2 hours in the afternoon, and 7-9 hours at night. I feel like I am tired all the time!

Yes, I worked 3 jobs for about 36 years, and, I know I am "catching up." But, when should this become a medical concern?

I am taking a mild dose of Prozac, but, not sure that should really help with sleeping so much. Anyone else have thoughts along these lines, or does it take months to readjust?

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Oversleeping
by: Anonymous

Sounds to me as though you are just relaxing after working so much. If you feel otherwise OK I wouldn't worry. Fresh air probably making you sleep better. But if you're really worried get a check up. All the best.

LOST IN SPACE
by: JUST ME

It has taken me 3 years to adjust to retirement..and since I still haven't, I have since gone back to work, as I truly don't know how to transition.

How does one work for sooo many years and then, one day, just STOP!

I also slept a lot and wandered in circles, trying to figure out what the heck this new passage in life was all about.....so, you may just have difficulty entering this new stage in your life.

Yes, you should get checked-out physically, but it may just be that you are a little lost right now. I don't know if I should even be working full time again at 70, but I also know that I don't want to just walk away from the "familiar.".....so, if any of you have it figured out, then maybe you can also help me. I, too, am quite stuck!!

Tired of Sleeping
by: Betty/Archer Florida

Dear Phil,

Could it be that you have changed your diet?
Reason I asked is that I gave up my morning coffee a few weeks ago. During the morning hours I feel sluggish and sometime go back to bed for 30 min or an hour.

However, I drink a cup for lunch, at which time I feel more energy afterwards. I have drank coffee for many years, since I was very young.

I also walk about one mile 2 or 3 times a week.

Just a thought.
Betty

Sleep and Depression
by: John A

Has your sleep issue been taking place for much longer than two weeks since you retired? If so, to me, it sounds like you may possibly have a medical issue if you are sleeping 7-9 hours a night plus another two during the day. Has your spouse mentioned anything about snoring?

If so, it could be sleep apnea and definitely needs to be investigated. Sleep Apnea is a condition that is very dangerous and interferes with your sleep pattern. You may very well think you are getting a good night's sleep when in actuality you are not. You may be waking up many times during the night gasping for air an not even realize it. Sleep apnea can cause the following:

Stroke or transient ischemic attacks
Coronary heart disease
Heart failure
Irregular heartbeat
Heart attack
High blood pressure
Heartburn and reflux (one cause of esophageal cancer)
Diabetes
Erectile dysfunction
Concentration and memory problems (dementia)
Depression (DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR)???????
Sudden death

In any case, I suggest a talk with your doctor since you can't go on like this for too long. Whether or not it's sleep apena or some some other cause, you need to find out what is causing you to feel tired all the time. It's not normal.

Sleeping too much??
by: Elna Nugent, MA

Dear " Sleeping too much",

Although I am not a "younger person" such as you and am female, but I think most people who walk two miles a day, 5 days a week, for months…it is amazing that you get out of bed at all.

That sleep is probably keeping you healthy and is much needed.

Beside walking 5 days a week, you don't tell us what you do when you are not sleeping. It may take you a while to catch up on the sleep you require. A more normal pattern will eventually occur.

I hope you have a hobby besides walking that stimulates your mind and talent. Many blessings.