Many people with cancer have problems sleeping at some point. This may be due to feeling unwell because of the cancer, or the cancer treatment, or because of anxiety or finding it hard to relax. Speak to your GP, specialist or nurse if you have trouble sleeping. These bedtime tips may also help:
- Before bed, have a bath with a few drops of lavender oil (lavender-scented pillow spray can also help).
- Have a warm milky drink before bed.
- Cut down on caffeine, especially in the evenings.
- Avoid alcohol - it may make you feel sleepy at first, but it actually disrupts your sleep.
- Get some regular gentle exercise, if possible.
- Try to get used to a regular bedtime routine; go to bed at the same time every night.
- Try a relaxation tape.
- If you wake up in the night, try not to worry about it. Get up and do something for a while until you feel sleepy again, and then go back to bed. Don't lie in bed tossing and turning; it can make you feel anxious.
If you are resting a lot during the day, and not sleeping at night, it might be worth a change to your routine. If you feel up to it, stay out of bed during the day, but without overdoing it. Perhaps just have one short sleep during the day if you feel you need it.