Does the rocking of a ship increase insomnia in those who have recently had a stroke and exhibit an increased startle reaction? I recently shared a cabin with a stroke victim who claimed she could not sleep all night. What I noticed is that repeatedly in the middle of the night she would suddenly and violently wake up without cause and think I was making noise. She also the week before the trip underwent an invasive procedure endoscopicly to see if she needed a stint placed in her artery. Could she be reacting to that, too? She claimed she slept better once we were in a hotel on land and I got my own cabin. Others in my family report that I am a quiet sleeper, so I believe I am not the cause of her insomnia which has plagued her all her life. A very light sleeper, or is something more serious going on that her doctor needs to know about? Thanks for your answer in advance. Nina Daniel
Hello I understand your concern and would explain that the sleep disturbances in this case could be related to depression or anxiety, probably caused by the stressful situation in which the patients have been through.  You should know that stroke can trigger depression and anxiety, as well as other medical procedures. Anyway you should also know that there are many treatment options in such cases.  It is important consulting with a neurologist and discussing this.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  