5 Great Strategies to Sleep Well Despite Cancer
You know sleep is important. But what can you do if you have trouble sleeping, either because of your cancer or due to its treatment? These tips will help.
Sleep is key for overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, getting a good night’s sleep can be difficult for cancer patients and their caregivers. According to some studies, over a third of people with cancer experience sleep problems. Whether you are coping with cancer yourself or helping a loved one, these tips will help you get the most out of your nights and improve your quality of life.
5 Tips to Help You Sleep Better
Establish a Regular Sleep Schedule
Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day will help your body adjust to the pattern. This can be especially helpful if you have trouble falling asleep.
Avoid Caffeine & Alcohol Before Bedtime
Caffeine and alcohol can keep you awake and make it harder to fall asleep. For caffeine drinkers, keep an eye on the clock, and try to stop drinking caffeinated beverages at least six hours before bed. Also, check the labels of your drinks—many juices and teas contain more caffeine than you might realize.
Avoid Using Electronics Close to Bedtime
The blue light from screens (including phones, laptops, etc.) can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Instead of watching TV or scrolling through your phone late at night, try leaving your devices outside the bedroom. If you do use electronics at night, apply a screen tint setting or wear blue light glasses.
Practice a Wind Down Routine
Just like you might establish a bedtime routine for a child, do the same for yourself! This may include taking a bath, reading a book, or writing in a journal.
Customize Your Sleep Set-up
Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillow, or even a reclining chair. For some cancer patients, a good night’s sleep looks different than before treatment. Make sure you are positioned in a way that works for you and your body, wherever you are in your journey.
Conclusion
Sleep is important for physical and mental health. During sleep, your body repairs cells and tissues damaged during the day. Sleep also helps regulate mood, energy levels and appetite. Additionally, getting good rest can help improve cognitive function and memory recall. These benefits are especially important for patients with cancer, but it can be difficult to rest well after a diagnosis. Recognize that disruptions to sleep are normal for cancer patients and caregivers. Intentional strategies can help you get the most out of your nights and improve your quality of life.
These are just a few tips to help you get started on your journey to better sleep. If you are having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about possible solutions. There are many options available to help you get the rest you need. Don’t suffer in silence. A good night’s sleep is within reach!
Hey, Wait!
Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss our latest news and promotions.
newsletter
Hey, Wait!
Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss our latest news and promotions.
newsletter
