What can help Mom with her sleep issues after chemotherapy?

The National Institute of Cancer estimates that 45% of people with cancer experience sleep disturbance. Your mom is not alone.

I think getting adequate rest will be helpful for your mom's health.

I can also understand why she is hesitating in trying additional medications or treatments since the items you listed were not helpful.

She may want to try some of these tips for getting a better night's sleep:

"¢ Go to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends.

"¢ Make sure the bedroom is quiet, dark, correct temperature for her, and comfortable.(Facilitate comfort through repositioning and support by adding extra pillows)

"¢ Avoid activities such as watching TV, video games etc before trying to sleep.

"¢ Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine 4-6 hours before bedtime.

"¢ Avoid exercise 2-4 hours prior to bedtime.

"¢ Try listening to relaxing music or taking a bath shortly before going to sleep.

"¢ If she is having trouble getting to sleep, don't struggle in bed. If she is unable to get to sleep within 15 minutes, go to another quiet place and lie down until she feels ready to fall asleep, and then return to the bedroom to sleep.

"¢ Avoid eating or drinking in the few hours right before going to bed, however, eating a high protein snack a few hours prior to going to bed may help ( e.g., milk, turkey, or other foods high in tryptophan)

"¢ Make sleep a priority

Although your mom may not be inclined to try additional medications, there are many more medications available for her to discuss with her physician.

To see a listing of some of these medications go to the National Institute of Cancer web site at http://www.cancer.gov/

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/sleepdisorders/HealthProfessional/page5