If you’re facing a cancer diagnosis, your former routines and habits may be upended. This also includes your sleep patterns and overall sleep health. To mark World Sleep Day on March 14th, 2025, we’re exploring sleep health and its specific relation to cancer treatment. How do cancer treatments affect sleep? What can be done to counteract changes in sleep patterns and health? Read on to learn more.
Sleep is immensely important to our physical and mental health, influencing “almost every tissue in our bodies.” From hormones to mental health to blood pressure to immune health, sleep can help our bodies rest, restore, and repair. When you’re undergoing cancer treatment, a good night’s sleep is that much more important – which is why it’s so important to promptly address any sleep issues you might be experiencing alongside your cancer journey.
First, know that you’re not alone in dealing with sleep issues. It’s common during cancer treatment to have problems with sleep, whether it’s a change in patterns, insomnia, or any other major shift that changes your overall sleep health. Some studies show up to 50 percent of those with cancer experience sleep issues. These changes can be a side effect of treatments including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, and medications. They can also be due to the shifts in lives and schedules: long hospital stays, appointments, changes in your work life, or stress. Sleep might also be impacted by side effects of the cancer itself from urinary issues to pain which can be a sleep-stealing culprit.
If you’re experiencing changes in your sleep health as a result of cancer and cancer treatment, your care team may refer you to a sleep specialist. If necessary, you might be offered a polysomnogram, also known as a sleep study, which would involve a deep analysis of your sleep with attention to your oxygen levels, brain wave activity, heart rate, and other factors – giving your medical professionals an overall look at your body at rest.
The activities you do during the day can significantly influence how you sleep at night. Limiting your caffeine intake in the afternoon, physical activity, natural sunlight in the morning, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol can all improve your rest. Similarly, establishing a regular bedtime routine can help you fall and stay asleep. Below are some habits you can implement immediately to promote better rest:
- Avoid screentime when you’re in bed
- Try reading, meditating, or breathing exercises before bed
- Keep your bedroom dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature or try using eye masks and ear plugs
- Wear comfortable pajamas
- Avoid exercise and big meals before bed
Other potential remedies include cognitive behavioral therapy (if stress is keeping you up at night), changes in medication (if these are causing your sleep problems), or your care team may recommend sleep medicine (if other interventions aren’t doing the trick). If you’re looking to try over-the-counter sleep aids and supplements, be sure to consult your doctor beforehand to make sure they’re safe for you.
Having sleep issues on top of a cancer diagnosis can be stressful, but it’s a common issue that your care team is prepared to help you combat. With a few additional modifications and the guidance of your team, you should be able to effectively restore your sleep health.
As always, consult with your medical provider for any specific questions about your own health. For general cancer-related queries, connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, using the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.
