Insomnia due to chemo. What can I do to help me sleep?

Hi, looking for advice. I've had 2 rounds of chemo for breast cancer. 4 to go before surgery.

I am having terrible trouble sleeping. I sleep for around 1 hour at a time then awake for couple hours.

This is making me feel very low.

Have trued deep breathing, relaxation techniques,  lavender, stopping caffeine.  Nothing helps.

What can I do?

  • Hello Lush57 and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear that you are finding it difficult to sleep. This must be so frustrating for you.

    It is important that you speak to your team about this. Sometimes some of the medications that you are taking can be adjusted or given at an earlier time in the day as this may be a factor in keeping you awake.

    We have some tips on our website about difficulty sleeping which you might find helpful to look at.

    The charity Breast Cancer Now has more tips

    It is important to try and stay active during the day and try and get as much fresh air as you can. Some people find that yoga helps as it can teach you breathing exercises which you can practice at night when you are finding it difficult to get back to sleep.

    There is a charity called future dreams. They are based in London but offer on line and in person courses and some exercise classes which are geared for women who are going through breast cancer treatment. You may also find this a helpful space to talk to other women who may be having similar sleep problems.

    Your hospital maybe near a maggie centre. They offer online and in person courses so you don't have to be near one to join. They also have clinical psychologists and you might find it helpful to talk to someone about your difficulty in getting to sleep.

    The charity macmillan offer free counselling which is available through Bupa which may also help.

    You have posted in ask the nurses but if you post on another thread or start your own you may find that you get more responses from others in a similar situation.

    You could talk to your GP. They may be reluctant to give you medication to sleep but if things continue it may be something that you would like to consider.

    Do give the nurses a ring on the helpline if you would like to talk things through.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    All the best,


    Catherine