Desperately seeking sleep!

Señor Vivo wrote:

Since arriving here a few weeks back, we have both found it impossible to sleep for more than four hours, then spend the rest of the night tossing and turning. Doctor Google tells me that this can be due to the altitude, and we do not seem to be improving any. Loving it here but sleep deprivation is tough and taking its toll  - has anyone else experienced this or have suggestions?  I have used Ativan in the past (Lorazepam) for flying or bouts of insomnia, and wonder if this might be available here without a prescription ? I have three left but they're like gold😉 We've tried natural aids like Melatonin but doesn't seem to work so well . Any help form the Forum would be so appreciated. 😎

A few expats have detailed similar ordeals online and I’ve also personally heard from another expat of suffering lack of sleep in Quito. What’s interesting about your situation is the mention of,“we both found it impossible to sleep for more than 4 hours”, so this is the first time that I have heard that a couple is suffering sleep deprivation at the same time.

Your best solution is to visit a specialist doctor that deals with these types of issues and they may write you a prescription because some medications are highly controlled by the health ministry and not available without a prescription.  That is the best advice to just visit a doctor and tell him/her your situation and they will help resolve your situation.

My opinion is that high altitude can either exasperate or improve some health conditions. Perhaps both of you are suffering from some kind of stress which is inconsiderable at lower elevation but exasperated at high altitude. This can be quite normal for people moving to a new country at least initially.

Again, visit a doctor and explain your situation. It could be a temporary state that you are dealing with, and if not think positively as you have options because you can try living lower altitude areas of Ecuador.

Thanks for taking the time to respond, we found it strange too that we are in the same boat. I'm not a great sleeper but my partner has never had problems. Oh well, misery loves company!