Why can't I sleep during cancer treatment?

Trouble sleeping during cancer treatment is common, and there is usually more than one reason for it. Sleep problems include being unable to fall asleep and being unable to stay asleep. This is also called insomnia, and it is common among people being treated for cancer. Studies show that as many as half of all people have sleep-related problems during treatment.

The National Cancer Institute says sleep problems may be caused by the side effects of treatment, medicines you are taking, long hospital stays, stress, and other factors. Several of these can happen at the same time. So it can be hard to point to one cause on your own.

The good news is that you and your health care team can take steps to help. Treating problems that get in the way of sleep, such as pain or diarrhea, may help. Cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and good bedtime habits can also help. Sleep medicine may be prescribed for a short time if other steps don't work. Tell your health care team if you have trouble sleeping, so you can get the help you need. They can look at what may be affecting your sleep and suggest what fits your situation.