Insomnia - what it the best way to treat this? Having immunotherapy at the moment

I can't sleep, but feel tired.

I am getting immunotherapy at the moment.I have also been treated for myeloma for approximately 6 months (which is suspended to allow me to be treated for kidney cancer).

I don't think I am stressed about it.

Am just wondering what is the best way to try and get to sleep.

  • Hi Billy

    Im also receiving immunotherapy and have insomnia. I dont think the two are linked but they could be. More likely that cancer is always there in the background of your thoughts.

    Ive tried the following that have helped a bit. No TV phone laptop an hour before bed. No caffeine after 3pm tea coffee cola etc. Cut out alcohol esp late evening, while it may help you to get to sleep quickly you will waken in a few hours. Get as much excercise as you can. Relaxation techniques can help I dont do these. The room you sleep in needs to be quiet, cool and totally dark. I put a blackout blind behind the curtain to achieve this. Mobile phone set to do not disurb overnight placed face down. The blinking light on the fire alarm covered over. Regular bedtime and getting up time. Your GP can give you a mild sleeping pill but restricted to a few weeks use. Hope this helps even if you only get an extra hours sleep it is something.

    Ed

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    I'm sorry to read about your situation and that you are experiencing difficulty with sleeping. This must be very frustrating for you.

    I'm not sure if you are taking steroids as part of your treatment plan This can interfere with sleeping in some people. If you are taking them then try and take your last one a few hours before bedtime to see if that helps. We also have some useful tips on things you can do to try to help improve your sleep pattern.

    Do speak to your doctor or specialist nurse if this continues. They will assess you and see if something else will help.

    I hope this helps. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene