Strategies for quality sleep and wellbeing

Enhance your rest: Strategies for quality sleep

Tips for creating your ideal sleep routine

Having a brain tumour may cause sleep problems because of the physical changes caused by the tumour or the treatment. Stress worry and anxiety often cause sleeping problems as do certain drugs or treatments. Being in the hospital may also make it harder to sleep.

Lack of sleep can cause irritability, depression, difficulty concentrating, staying alert and being involved in activities during the day. You may not be able to remember treatment instructions and may have trouble making decisions. Being well-rested can improve energy and help you cope with the side effects of treatment.

If you have difficulty talk to your GP or oncology team. They will make an assessment  to find problems that may be causing the sleep disorder and how it affects your life. A sleep disorder assessment includes a physical exam, health history (diet, exercise, emotions, medicines), and sleep history.

Treating sleep disorders may include supportive care for side effects of the tumour or treatment, such as cognitive behavioral therapy may reduce anxiety and help you relax and learn good sleep habits. If treatment without drugs does not help, sleep medicines may be used for a short time.

Sleep tips

• Make your bed and bedroom more comfortable – keep the room quiet, and dim or turn off lights and keep the room at a comfortable temperature
• Keep your skin clean and dry and dress in loose, soft clothing
• Keep bedding and pillows clean, dry, and smooth, without wrinkles and use blankets to keep warm and pillows to get into a comfortable position
• Avoid drinking a lot before bedtime and empty your bowel and bladder before going to bed.
• Avoid heavy, spicy, or sugary foods, drinks that contain caffeine, alcohol and smoking before bedtime.
• Stay active during the day and don’t exercise within 3 hours of bedtime.
• Avoid watching TV or working in the bedroom and relax before bedtime.
• Go to sleep and wake up at the same hours every day, no matter how little you slept.

Call our support line

To access our support services, call our Support Co-ordinator today on 01454 422 701 or email support@braintumoursupport.co.uk.
Our Support Co-ordinator is available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Our services are free and confidential. We're here to listen and support you through your journey.

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