Sleep is necessary for repair, emotional stability, and general living standards, particularly for cancer patients. However, sleep disorders are so frequent among cancer patients that almost half of those undergoing diagnosis or treatment are affected. The alterations in the body brought about by tumours, the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation, or drugs, as well as the cancer-related emotional stress, can all disrupt the patient’s usual sleep patterns. Inadequate sleep may further weaken energy, concentration, and the ability to make decisions during the course of treatment. The continual experience of sleep problems in the long run may also elevate the likelihood of anxiety and depression. Knowing the reasons for sleep disorders in cancer patients, the methods of their assessment, and the available treatments is a vital step in getting one’s comfort, strength, and ability to function during the cancer period up.
Why sleep disorders are common in people with cancer
According to a study named Sleep Disorders (PDQ®)–Patient Version, cancer exerts a physical as well as an emotional pressure on the body, which are two things that ultimately interfere with sleep. For example, tumours may result in pain, breathing difficulties, coughing, itching, or exerting pressure on organs such as the bladder or bowel, causing a person to wake up frequently during the night. Besides that, fever and extreme tiredness may also become the reasons for an individual’s sleep being completely disturbed.
Besides that, cancer treatments are a major factor in this issue as well. For instance, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, corticosteroids, and some antidepressants or pain medicines may be the causes of one’s sleep being disturbed, as a result of which falling asleep and staying asleep will be difficult. What is more, side effects such as nausea, night sweats, hot flashes, anxiety, and gastrointestinal problems may intensify during the night, thus further diminishing sleep quality.Hospitalisation may have an effect on a person’s rest, too, apart from the cancer itself and its treatments. For instance, the noise, lighting, shared rooms, uncomfortable beds, and frequent checks by medical staff are all factors that can disturb the sleep of hospital patients. The majority of patients who suffer from this condition point out that the distress caused by the diagnosis of cancer is in fact the reason for their insomnia, i.e., they find it hard to let go of the worries and fear, and consequently, it becomes difficult for them to relax.
Common types of sleep disorders in cancer patients
The most common sleep problem in cancer patients is insomnia, which is generally characterised by difficulty falling asleep, waking frequently during the night or waking too early. A few patients may experience circadian rhythm disorders in which the natural sleep-wake cycle is so disturbed that they end up sleeping during the day and being awake at night.Sleep apnoea can happen, for instance, in patients with breathing difficulties or those who have had some changes in their weight. Hypersomnia, that is to say, excessive sleepiness during the day, can come about as a result of poor and fragmented sleep at night. Parasomnias, like sleep talking or walking, are rare but, in some cases, may occur.On the occasions when sleep is broken over and over again, the brain is not able to go through all the sleep stages, deep sleep and rapid eye movement sleep in particular, which are vital for physical recovery, memory and emotional well-being.
How sleep disorders are assessed during cancer care
Evaluating sleep problems should be an integral part of cancer treatment, and it has to be done regularly because such issues may change over time. Normally, doctors start with a physical examination and a detailed medical history. This also involves checking cancer symptoms, treatments, drugs, emotional state, diet, exercise, and daily routines.Patients and caregivers should openly talk about sleep habits, for instance, the time taken to fall asleep, how frequently waking occurs, and how rested the patient feels during the day. Occasionally, a sleep study, polysomnogram, may be utilised. This examination records brain activity, breathing, heart rate, and muscle movement during sleep to figure out the exact disorders.
Treating sleep disorders in cancer patients
Initially, treatment frequently aims at controlling symptoms caused by cancer that make it difficult to sleep. Good pain control, treatment of nausea, breathing with less difficulty, and support for anxiety or depression, which can all make rest better, are some of the ways by which sleep can be improved. Along with this, supportive care, education, and emotional support provided by healthcare teams and family members are of great help.Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia is considered to be one of the most efficient non-drug methods. It assists patients in eliminating false beliefs about sleep and in acquiring better sleep habits. Patients may find that using the techniques of stimulus control, sleep restriction, and relaxation therapy helps them to feel less anxious at bedtime and to have a better sleep quality.
The importance of healthy sleep habits
Good sleep routines are a must for cancer patients, in particular. Making your bedroom quiet and comfortable, dimming the lights, and keeping the room cool can all be of help. Dressing in loose clothes, using fresh bed linen, and selecting comfortable sleeping positions may alleviate any discomfort.Having regular bowel and bladder habits can help reduce nighttime wakefulness. People who remain active during the day, do not drink caffeine or alcohol, and have light, balanced meals in the evening may also benefit from good sleep. Having a regular sleep and wake time is also helpful in stabilising the body clock.
Why good sleep matters during cancer treatment
Good sleep elevates one’s energy, mood, and overall stamina for the tough side effects that may come with the treatment. Besides, it is a great booster of the body’s natural defence system and concentration skill; thus, the patient will be more active in his/her treatment. An intervention aimed at any sleep disorder should not be considered as mere sleeping but rather as the main factor that enhances the patient’s health and cancer life quality.(Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding sleep disorders, cancer care, or treatment decisions.)
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