Sleep Problems

Several different types of sleep problems may be caused by cancer treatments.  Some patients experience insomnia, which is the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep.  Sometimes the opposite effect occurs, which is excessive sleepiness.  Various disruptions of wake-sleep cycles may happen.

 

Who is affected by sleep problems?

The types of sleep problems experienced by patients depend upon the type of cancer treatment and symptoms.  Some may experience insomnia due to pain from surgery.  Patients in intensive care settings may have their sleep disrupted due to noise from hospital surroundings.  Hot flashes and night sweats after surgery for gynecological cancer can keep some women awake at night.  Those with previous sleep apnea may worsen during cancer treatments.

 

What causes sleep problems?

Chemical imbalances and hormone level changes from cancer treatments can cause sleep problems.  Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause chemical imbalance, which disrupts sleep patterns.  Changes in hormone levels can cause sleep problems.  Gynecologic surgery, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy are common causes of hormone level changes.  However, side effects of cancer treatments are the most common causes of sleep problems.  Some medications designed to treat nausea may cause insomnia.  Opioids may cause excessive sleepiness.

 

Managing Sleep Problems

A physician may be able to recommend simple changes in daily habits and routines, which may help patients sleep better.  Also, changes in medications may be needed if a doctor thinks that will be beneficial.  Prescribing sleep medications may also be an option, however they should be taken for no longer than two weeks.  This will ensure patients do not become addicted to the drug.

 

When should a patient consult a doctor regarding sleep problems?

Addressing sleep problems early on is important for cancer patients, because rest is necessary to promote healing.  However, patients should consult a physician before taking any over-the-counter medication.  Some medications can react to certain cancer treatments.