25 month old with insomnia

[jessi0887]

I have a 25 month old who has suffered with insomnia since he was just around five months. It all started with colic and reoccuring ear infections. He has had tubes placed and has also suffered reoccuring eye infections where he has had two eye surgeries. His first week home he slept through the night, but it changed once colic set in. For me being a first time mother i didn't think anything of it as he kept waking up everynight. After he turned one i was concerned but alot of moms said its normal. Then again i dont see any of my other friends who are moms staying up half the night. He does cosleep with me. I could never get him to sleep alone but also i have to share a room with him due to not able to afford my own place. I have tried to let him cry it out a couple of times but its hard and it doesn't seem to work. Not to mention i live with family so letting him cry keeps them up all night and they complain. I dont know what the cause of his insomnia is but i know its not obstructive cause i have had that checked out. THe doctor won't do nothing he just tells me to let him cry. I am on here asking for advice. I was considering trying a couple of things like chamomile or valerian. There is a few more but i dont know which ones would be better or also how to use. Is it okay for prolong use or should i consult with the doctor first. Its been a rough ride for me and with little help i am stressed out. I work early in the morning so with lack of sleep its just really all getting to me. Any advice would be appreciated. I would switch doctors but most other doctors are too far from here are dont take the insurance. Thanks

[Purple98Lady]

I certianly empathize with you and your son. Just surviving colic is a major task for both. I'm not sure if colic would last until 25 months though. You mentioned he has tubes in his ears, eye infections so hes been ill alot. I assume you are having your child seen by a pediatrician. If not I would suggest it. I would ask him about other reasons why he would be crying. maybe reflux, allergies that really make him uncomfortable. You didn't mention any medications he is on even those can cause side effects and children can't tell us.
Your living condition is a challenge but not impossible, you just need to find out all has been done from a medical standpoint for causes even if that means another Dr. for further evaluation. Once that is done and your child feels better this crying may stop. You mention he co sleeps with you, usually this makes them very happy and at this age , at this age too they want their way alot and routines are established during this time. Such as sleeping in their own beds and rooms, bedtimes etc. So the crying concerns me and I would make sure all in okay from a medical standpoint.
Best of Luck.