Sleep Solutions for Cancer Patients: Evidence-Based Products and Techniques

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for your health and well-being. However, for cancer patients, having a restful sleep can be very challenging. Factors such as pain, anxiety, medication side effects, and the stress of treatment often contribute to sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep apnoea, and restless leg syndrome.

According to the Australian Sleep Association, 15% of Australians experience insomnia, which can have significant adverse health effects[1]. Additionally, it is recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep each night, with at least an hour of relaxation before bed to improve sleep quality.[2] Therefore, it’s important that those experiencing sleep issues have techniques in place to help them on their treatment journey.

In this post, we’ll explore the common sleep challenges faced by those experiencing cancer, provide evidence-based techniques for improving sleep, and highlight practical products that may help.

Common Sleep Issues for Cancer Patients

Many cancer patients experience disrupted sleep due to various reasons, including:

• Insomnia – Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often worsened by stress and anxiety.
• Sleep Apnoea – A condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, sometimes aggravated by certain cancer treatments.
• Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) – An uncontrollable urge to move your legs, commonly observed in patients undergoing chemotherapy.[3]
• Research from Australian cancer research centres indicates that addressing these sleep disturbances is crucial to improving quality of life during and after treatment.

Evidence-Based Sleep Strategies

Cancer patients can take proactive steps to improve their sleep by adopting evidence-based techniques recommended by leading cancer centres in Australia.

Practice Good Sleep Habits

Creating a consistent bedtime routine can help regulate your body’s internal clock. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Avoid long daytime naps, as they can interfere with your nighttime sleep.

Reduce Screen Time Before Bed

Excessive screen time, whether it’s television or scrolling on a phone, it can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Experts recommend turning off electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality. Instead, opt for activities like reading a book or listening to calming music.

Exercise Regularly (But Not Right Before Bed)

Exercise is known to improve sleep, reduce stress, and boost overall energy levels. However, the Australian Government’s Cancer Australia advises against exercising too close to bedtime, as it stimulates the body and makes it harder to have a good sleep.

Try Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation therapy tools can be particularly beneficial for cancer patients dealing with stress and anxiety. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the mind and prepare the body for rest.

Consider Sleep Medication (If prescribed)

For patients experiencing severe sleep disturbances, a doctor may recommend short-term use of sleep medication. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any sleep aids, as some medications may interact with cancer treatments. Always follow your doctor’s advice when considering sleep medications.[4]

Cancer Australia provides key recommendations for improving sleep:

Use the bedroom only for sleep – Avoid working, eating, or watching TV in bed to strengthen the mental association between your bedroom and rest.

Create a comfortable sleep environment – Ensure your mattress and pillows provide adequate support, and keep the room cool, dark, and quiet.

Speak to your doctor – If sleep disturbances persist, it’s crucial to seek medical advice to rule out underlying conditions that may be affecting your sleep.[5]

Mental Health Support for Sleep Issues

Poor sleep can take a toll on mental health, particularly for those going through a cancer diagnosis. If your sleep issues are affecting your emotional well-being, consider reaching out to Beyond Blue for support. They offer free 24/7 telephone and online counselling services to help individuals navigate the emotional challenges of cancer.

For more information click here

Sleep is a critical component of cancer recovery and overall well-being. By adopting good sleep habits, reducing screen time, practicing relaxation techniques, and seeking medical advice, when necessary, cancer patients can significantly improve their sleep quality.

Looking for more sleep solutions? Check out Aurora Directs range of products today designed to help you have a successful recovery, prioritising your comfort.