Insomnia after Chemo

Dad has stage 4 cancer. Had first chemo 12 days ago. Had 3 trips to A&E due to vomiting and labrinthitus. Was very ill. Touch wood, hasn't thrown up in about a week now and dizzyness has passed. But he is now not sleeping. None of his anti-sickness pills were staying down so the doctors gave him Buccastem M that he could dissolve through his gym so that way it would stay in him even if he did throw up. Since he's been taking them, he has been feeling much better.The only issue now, is he cannot sleep. My dad has always been the person who culd sleep on a washing line during a storm. Always asleep on the sofa, sleeping through the night, snoring. But since he's been on them, he cannot sleep at all during the night and cannot sleep during the day, even for a few minutes. I know what it's like to not sleep and you get caught in a viscious circle. He stopped taking the Buccal pills on Sunday as he's been feeling much better and they do say they can keep you awake, but its a few days later and he is still struggling to sleep at all. Any tips?

  • Hi victoriajayne, I'm sorry to hear that your dad's been so poorly, and is now struggling to sleep. 

    Hopefully, someone who's had similar experiences will be along soon to chat, and may well have some tips to share. 

    In the meantime, if you'd like to talk to someone about the anti-sickness medication your dad's taking, I'd recommend giving our Nurse Helpline a call: 0808 800 4040 (Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm). You can also email them if you prefer, but that can take a bit longer to get a response as they get quite a few queries. 

    I do hope he's able to get more rest soon; let us know how you both get on. 

    Thinking of you both,

    Helen

    Cancer Chat Moderator

     

  • Hi VictoriaJayne,

    I had similar issues post-Chemo and my GP thought it might be a symptom of stress or anxiety. My mind was racing every night and I found it near impossible to sleep for several weeks. I was put on a low dosage of medication to take the edge off, which did the trick. 

    We naturally focus on the physical effects of cancer, often forgetting about the massive emotional and psychological impact. 

    It might be worth him chatting to his GP about this.

    Best wishes

    Dave