How to sleep better when you have cancer

Published on: 22 March 2019 Last Updated on: 26 November 2021

Did you know that a poor sleeping schedule could increase your risk of cancer? It may be responsible for raising the risk of heart conditions, diabetes, and other major illnesses, as well as impair your immunity system. Experts have realized the importance of sleep in addressing these risks. They suggest that people should focus on improving the quality of their sleep to improve their lives. There are a large number of people who are already suffering from these conditions who may have trouble sleeping as a result. Do you have cancer? This guide can help you sleep better at night.

How does cancer interfere with sleep?

sleep

Cancer and cancer treatment can induce sleep problems even in people without a previous history of troubled sleep. You may be faced with excessive fatigue throughout the day from both your condition and treatment, which will impact your ability to get a full night’s rest. Both could increase your risk of developing a sleep condition significantly. Sleep better for your better health habits during times of cancer.

Cancer may cause both physical and emotional distress, which will affect your sleep. These can be very disruptive to your sleep patterns. The medication and treatment plans on offer for people with this condition will also cause sleep problems.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatment will often carry side effects such as pain, night sweatband nausea, which will make it difficult to sleep at night. There are many secondary conditions that may cause other sleep complications that could arise from treatment. You may also face trouble sleeping from anemia and hypothyroidism.

The most common sleep disorder among cancer patients is hypersomnia, which increases the urge to sleep throughout the day. Some symptoms of hypersomnia include having trouble staying awake, sleeping for more than 9 hours at a time and experiencing persistent sleepiness despite actually getting recommended amounts of sleep.

It is linked with certain types of cancer, but may also be a result of treatment. About one-third of cancer patients experience the reverse condition, insomnia. Some of the symptoms of this include difficulty falling and staying asleep, feeling unrefreshed after a full period of sleep and regular early mornings. Most insomnia in cancer patients arises from chronic pain, but may also result from treatment.

Cancer also increases the risk of disruptive sleep apnea and sleep-disordered breathing problems. It may be symptomized by poor concentration and memory levels, headaches, excessive sleepiness, chronic snoring, dry mouth, and sore throat, and decreased libido.

How to sleep better when you have cancer

Cancer can cause chronic pain, which will affect your sleep. You may also have a poor sleep schedule because of the treatment options which can take a toll on your body and mind. It is important that you maintain a healthy sleep routine to maximize your ability to get recommended amounts of rest every night. These are a few tips to help you sleep better when you are living with cancer.

Restore balance to your sleep/wake rhythm

You will be less likely to sleep if your circadian rhythm is compromised. Since it is affected by exposure to light, you can control your sleep/wake cycle by regulating your exposure to light. During the day, you should take in as much natural light as possible. At night, you should limit the amount of light to improve your ability to fall asleep. If you are facing increased fatigue from your treatment, you could consider healthy and energetic food options, as well as exercise, to build up your energy levels. This will help you stay up during the day and restore your natural rhythm for a better night.

Maintain a sleep schedule

You should limit your sleep to about the same length every night for consistency. Even on the weekends, you should only allow yourself at most one more hour in bed. This will help your brain build a positive association with your sleep environment, which will enable you to sleep and wake up within your schedule. You will be better able to get a good night’s rest if you have an orderly schedule to help you out.

Try out essential oils

Essential oils are great for addressing chronic pain and managing other effects of cancer. You should incorporate these oils into your lifestyle because they can alleviate some of the effects of both your condition and treatment. Essential oils such as lavender can be applied topically as a form of aromatherapy to induce sleep. Other oils such as peppermint and tea tree oil offer anti-inflammatory effects. The pain reduction and effect on snoring will help you sleep without any disruptions.

Limit blue light

Blue light exposure can confuse your brain into tanking that it is still day time. It is emitted by phones, computers and other devices with a screen. It could affect your ability to fall asleep. You should make sure to have all these devices off at least 90minutes before bed to help you sleep better.

Create a good sleeping environment

Cancer patients need an uninterrupted night. However, this can be difficult because of the pain and other effects of treatment. You can improve your ability to get a full night’s rest by improving the level of comfort in your sleep environment. You could consider getting new mattresses, sheets and pillows to elevate your level of comfort. Visit bear mattress for a great selection of comfortable options. Aside from having comfortable sheets, warm pillows and a great mattress, you may also need to limit your exposure t light and noise to help you get to sleep. Some music could help you sleep better, but care must be taken to ensure it is not disruptive and accompanies your night. You could also consider natural and patterned sounds to help you fall asleep.

Final word

Sleep is restorative and beneficial for your health. It has been linked with an increased likelihood of successful cancer treatment; with people who sleep better likely to go into remission. Having as little as 6 hours or as much as 10 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period could negatively affect your ability to beat cancer. You need to develop and commit to a great sleeping schedule to increase you odds of survival. Sleep quality and hygiene could be just as integral to your survival as a good diet and treatment plan.

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Emergency Chiropractic Care – It Can’t Wait

Chiropractic care isn’t often something we think of as an emergency treatment. Usually, we conceptualize going to the chiropractor as a sort of routine treatment, something you do every month or every few months to when your back and neck are feeling stiff. You go get worked on to alleviate any symptoms you might have and reduce the future severity of any pain. However, emergency chiropractic care is a critical form of treatment and is not something that should go unmentioned. Consider for a moment someone who has had an emergency. Perhaps it was a sports injury, a car crash, or some other kind of trauma that has affected their back, neck or spine. Oftentimes, you would go to an emergency room or primary care physician right away, have them look at whatever external damage there is, and ok you to return home. If your back continued to hurt for a few days or weeks after this, then you might go see a chiropractor to have it realigned. However, failing to see a chiropractor right away can bring consequences. Not only will this lengthen your recovery time, but it can also cause suffering with undeserving pain longer than perhaps necessary. Emergency Chiropractic Care – It Can't-Wait: When is it a chiropractic emergency? As one emergency chiropractic specialist discusses, there are two large categories of accidents that create chiropractic emergencies – sudden, acute pain that arises out of seemingly nothing and traumatic events such as sports injuries, work injuries and work accidents. Anytime you experience sudden, unexpected and unexplainable pain in your neck or back you should immediately think chiropractic care. This could very well be caused by a slipped or herniated disk, something that needs to be taken care of immediately. By seeing a chiropractic specialist they will be able to diagnose the problem and provide treatment. Leaving this kind of thing on its own for a few days or a few weeks can add to the pain and suffering. For instance, the severity of the condition itself can increase and you can develop other issues from the limited mobility. Of course, you are also likely to be in extreme pain, something that should justify a trip to the chiropractor on its own. Sports injuries in particular, especially when they affect the cervical spine (neck area), can result in neurological problems, such as carpal tunnel if left untreated. Of course, the classic cases of sports injuries all result from the repeated hits and tackles of football, but most sports involve repetitive, ongoing stress to the same muscles, joints and bones day after day. A lot of the patients emergency care chiropractors will see are in fact the sort of weekend athletes that come in with these injuries. They have their day jobs but enjoy getting out and competing on the weekends, only to get injured and need emergency chiropractic care. If either of these sorts of emergencies happens to you, then you should immediately think of seeing a chiropractor for treatment. Taking care of any musculoskeletal injuries is just as important as getting stitches and medicine. What will an emergency chiropractor do? A chiropractor treating someone in an emergency situation will often employ various additional techniques and many of the same methods and practices that they would if they were seeing you in their office during a regular visit. Of course, the timeline will be compressed as the chiropractor will be working to relieve your pain and address the problems as quickly as possible. The emergency chiropractor will start by identifying the issue. They will ask you questions about the accident or injury you have suffered and will seek to better understand your medical history, especially as it relates to chiropractic care. They will test your flexibility, seeing how restricted your movement might be by pain and they will feel around your spine, neck and or back. Once your issue is identified, he or she will go about making whatever adjustments are necessary to alleviate the origin of your pain. One chiropractor working in an emergency room described this process well. He spoke of a patient that came in after having attempted to lift a heavy airplane tire at his work. It caused his back to clinch up in pain, and he laid on the floor for four hours before he was willing to admit to anyone that hen needed help. The emergency room doctors gave him several different injections of powerful pain medications, but nothing could totally remove the pain in this man’s back. Finally, they called the chiropractor in to see what he could do for him. The man’s back was spasming and the chiropractor explained this to him then went ahead and implemented manual therapy techniques to help relax the affected muscles. After this, the chiropractor put the patient on his side, stretched him out and performed some spinal adjustments. This resulted in a nice reduction in pain for the patient. In fact, the chiropractor relaying the story says the patient was so improved he was able to dress and walk out of the emergency room on his own, impressing the nurses and everyone else there. It should be clear by now that chiropractic care is not just something for routine pain reduction. Adjustments to the back and neck should be seen as an absolute necessity after certain types of trauma and injury. Skipping out on chiropractic care after this should be viewed the same way as skipping out on getting stitches after a massive cut. Just as an infection can lead to much greater complications than the original injury, so too can skipping out on chiropractic care can lead to orthopedic or neurological issues later on. If you have suffered from a work injury, a sports injury, or any kind of acute, sudden pain in your neck or back, it is critical that you see a chiropractor right away. While you might not find one in an emergency room, there are a number of chiropractors that offer emergency services to those that need it. Seeking out a trained, experienced specialist to help relieve any symptoms and injuries you may have will be critical to your recovery process and long-term health. You don’t have a moment to waste! Read Also: American Healthcare And Its Woes How To Care For The Elderly: Tips For The Caregivers

Timing Is Key: Unveiling The Best Moments To Combat Mosquitoes And Ticks

In the quest for a peaceful, healthy living and working environment, one often overlooked aspect is the timing of pest control measures. This statement is particularly true in the battle against common irritants like mosquitoes and ticks, which are not just sources of discomfort but can also be carriers of serious diseases. Mosquito and tick control's effectiveness is significantly enhanced when implemented at the right time. This guide provides valuable insights into the best moments for controlling these pests, ensuring your homes and offices remain safe havens. Understanding The Enemy: Behaviors Mosquitoes and ticks exhibit distinct behaviors and preferences. Mosquitoes are typically most active during dawn and dusk and prefer humid environments. They breed in stagnant water and can become a significant problem if not controlled. Ticks, conversely, lurk in tall grass and wooded areas and show heightened activity in warmer months. Targeting mosquitoes in the early morning or late evening, when they are most active, can lead to more impactful results. For ticks, focusing on prevention in spring and summer, when they are breeding and most active, is vital to controlling their population. The Best Time For Spraying Spraying in the late afternoon or early evening, just before mosquitoes become most active, ensures that the maximum number of pests are exposed to the treatment. This timing allows the spray to settle and take effect at the right moment. In the case of ticks, the best time for treatment is during late spring and early summer. Applying treatments during this period targets nymph ticks, which are particularly active and pose a significant risk. Weather Considerations The success of pest control efforts is closely tied to weather conditions. Mosquito control sprays, for instance, are less effective in windy or rainy conditions as these elements can dilute or disperse the treatment, reducing its potency. Ideal tick control is achieved in dry weather, as humidity and rain can affect the application and longevity of products. Therefore, it's advisable to choose a clear, dry day for the application of tick treatments. Frequency Of Treatment Maintaining a consistent treatment schedule is crucial. For mosquitoes, regular treatments every 4-6 weeks during their active season can significantly curb their presence. For ticks, a bi-monthly treatment during their peak season is recommended. Regular treatments disrupt the life cycle of ticks, preventing their proliferation and reducing the likelihood of infestations. Natural vs. Chemical Treatments Choosing between natural and chemical treatments depends on several factors, including the severity of the infestation and personal preferences. Natural remedies, like essential oils and plant-based products, can be effective against mosquitoes and ticks. However, these may require more frequent application and are generally less potent than chemical options. Here are three oils that can be used as natural pest repellents: · Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: Derived from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree, this oil is known for its effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes and ticks. · Lavender Oil: Besides its calming fragrance, lavender oil is also recognized for repelling mosquitoes and ticks. · Tea Tree Oil: This oil, extracted from the leaves of the tea tree, is praised for its antiseptic properties and also acts as a natural repellent against these pests. Chemical treatments offer longer-lasting protection and are often more effective in controlling larger infestations. They should, however, be used judiciously and responsibly, considering the safety of all inhabitants, including pets and children. Here are three chemical substances that can be used as pest repellents: · DEET (N, N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide): Probably the most well-known chemical repellent, DEET is widely used for its effectiveness against a wide range of pests. · Picaridin: Known for being less irritating than DEET, picaridin is another effective chemical repellent against mosquitoes and ticks. · Permethrin: Although not typically used on the skin, permethrin can be applied to clothing, footwear, and gear to protect against mosquito and tick bites. It's important to note that the effectiveness and safety of these oils and chemicals can vary based on concentration and method of application. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and consider any personal or environmental health concerns when choosing a repellent. DIY vs. Professional Services DIY pest control can be tempting, but it requires a good understanding of the products and their proper application. Incorrect usage can not only reduce effectiveness but also pose health risks. Professional pest control services provide expertise and more potent solutions. They offer a comprehensive approach, often including an infestation assessment, treatment application, and follow-up services. While costly, professionals can save time and ensure a thorough approach. Safety Precautions Safety should be a primary concern, whether opting for DIY methods or professional services. When applying treatments, wearing appropriate protective gear and adhering strictly to the product's instructions are crucial. Particularly with chemical treatments, it's essential to keep children and pets away from the treated areas until they're safe. Always ensure that treated areas are well-ventilated and avoid contact with the skin and eyes. Integrating Pest Control Into Your Routine Integrating pest control into your regular home maintenance routine can significantly reduce the presence of mosquitoes and ticks. This process not only includes the application of treatments but also preventive measures. Regularly clearing standing water, maintaining your yard, and keeping grass trimmed can discourage these pests from breeding and residing in your space. Additionally, regular checks and maintenance of your environment can minimize the need for frequent treatments, making your pest control efforts more efficient and sustainable. The Role Of Technology In Pest Control Advances in technology have introduced innovative and more environmentally friendly pest control solutions. These include ultrasonic devices, which repel pests using high-frequency sound waves, and biological treatments that use natural predators or pathogens to target specific pests. Staying informed about the latest developments in pest control technology can provide more effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly options for managing pests. Preparing For The Off-Season Even during off-peak seasons, when pest activity is low, preparing for their return is important. Start by winterizing your outdoor spaces and end by strategizing your pest control approach for the upcoming season. Conducting an off-season audit of potential breeding sites and preparing a proactive pest control plan can significantly reduce severe infestations in warmer months. Conclusion Effective mosquito and tick control transcends the mere use of products; it hinges on understanding and capitalizing on the right timing. Aligning your pest control strategies with the behavioral patterns of these pests and considering factors such as weather, treatment frequency, and safety can create a more comfortable, healthy, and pest-free environment in your homes and offices. In the realm of pest control, remember that timing is, indeed, key to success. Read Also: Top 4 Must-Have Appliances In Every Kitchen Top 10 Effective Tips To Keep Your Home Safe 5 Tips To Safeguard Your Home From Intruders

Journeying With The Dying: How Hospice Chaplains Facilitate End-Of-Life Spiritual Transitions

When individuals approach the twilight of their lives, they often confront a whirlwind of emotions—fear, regret, hope, acceptance, and more. This intense period termed the end-of-life phase, sees many grappling with existential questions and seeking answers to life's most profound mysteries. This search for clarity and solace is where the spiritual dimension of human existence comes to the forefront. Many turn to spirituality as a source of comfort, a beacon of hope, and a framework for making sense of their experiences. It's within this complex tapestry of emotions and spiritual quests that hospice chaplains, representing the realm of hospice chaplaincy, emerge as pivotal figures. These professionals dedicate themselves to guiding individuals through this intricate journey, helping them find spiritual serenity amidst the tumultuous currents of approaching mortality. The subsequent sections delve deeper into understanding the multifaceted role of these spiritual caregivers. The Integral Role of a Hospice Chaplain Defining the Role in Greater Detail: Hospice chaplains stand at the crossroads of spirituality and caregiving. They aren't just religious figures; they are trained professionals skilled in offering spiritual support tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Their role goes beyond mere ritualistic practices. They act as confidants, counselors, and guides, providing a listening ear, heartfelt advice, and spiritual interventions tailored to the individual's beliefs and wishes. Whether helping patients find peace with their life's journey, facilitating forgiveness and reconciliation, or simply being present during moments of deep reflection, hospice chaplains are there to ensure that the spiritual dimension of end-of-life care is addressed with the utmost sensitivity and respect. The Spectrum of Interfaith Approaches: One of the most remarkable aspects of hospice chaplaincy is its inclusiveness. Recognizing the diverse tapestry of beliefs and spiritual outlooks in our globalized world, hospice chaplains are trained to cater to various religious and spiritual traditions. Whether a person identifies with a major world religion, a lesser-known spiritual path, or even if they consider themselves secular or agnostic, chaplains are there to provide support. This approach ensures that every individual, irrespective of their belief system, has access to spiritual care that resonates with them. By adopting such an inclusive approach, hospice chaplains affirm the idea that every end-of-life journey is unique and every individual's spiritual needs deserve to be met with understanding, respect, and personalized care. The end-of-life journey is a deeply personal and transformative phase. While medical professionals focus on alleviating physical pain and discomfort, hospice chaplains address the soul's yearnings, questions, and quest for peace. By offering tailored spiritual interventions and an inclusive approach that honors diverse beliefs, they ensure that individuals and their families find the spiritual solace they seek during these poignant moments. Delving Deeper: Spiritual Needs, Interventions, and Family Impact in the End-of-Life Journey Spiritual Needs at the End of Life Seeking Meaning and Purpose: The imminence of death often prompts deep introspection. Many individuals reflect upon their life's journey, trying to discern its purpose. These reflections might encompass personal achievements, missed opportunities, unfulfilled dreams, and significant life events. In such times, spiritual guidance assists individuals in navigating these contemplations, helping them find peace with their life narrative, celebrating accomplishments, and making peace with regrets. Reconciliation: Estrangements and unresolved conflicts become especially poignant during the end-of-life phase. Many individuals desire to reconnect, apologize, or seek forgiveness from loved ones. The urge to mend relationships, settle old disputes, or express unspoken feelings becomes vital. The spiritual guide aids in facilitating these reconciliations, offering counsel, and, if necessary, acting as a mediator. Fear and Hope: The mystery of what comes after death is a source of both trepidation and anticipation. The fear of the unknown contrasts starkly with hopes or beliefs of an afterlife, reincarnation, or spiritual continuation. By addressing these concerns, chaplains help balance these emotions, emphasizing the transformative nature of death in various spiritual traditions. Cultural and Traditional Rites: Every culture and religion has rituals that honor the dying and the deceased. Whether it's a specific prayer, a song, a way, or even silence, these rites are paramount for the person passing and their family. Respecting and facilitating these practices is crucial to providing a sense of closure, continuity, and respect for the individual's spiritual and cultural identity. Interventions by Hospice Chaplains Active Listening: One of the most profound gifts a chaplain can offer is the gift of presence—simply being there, offering a listening ear. By actively listening, they provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to voice their deepest feelings, concerns, and reflections, guided. Meditations and Prayers: Tailoring spiritual practices to individual needs, chaplains might guide patients through meditations or prayers that align with their beliefs. These sessions can instill a sense of calm, acceptance, and connection with the divine or the universe. Scripture Readings: For those who find solace in religious texts, chaplains can read passages that resonate with the patient's current emotions or questions. Scriptures, whether from the Bible, Quran, Torah, Bhagavad Gita, or other religious texts, can offer comfort, guidance, and a sense of continuity. Ritual Facilitation: Be it sacraments, candle lighting, or even non-religious rituals like listening to a specific song or watching a sunset, chaplains assist in organizing and facilitating these rites, ensuring the Grief Support: The dying process isn't just about the individual; it encompasses the family and loved ones. Chaplains extend their support to these grieving souls, offering a shoulder to lean on, words of comfort, and guidance through their emotional journey. The Impact on Families Emotional Anchoring: In the tumultuous sea of emotions, chaplains act as an anchor for families. Their calm presence and experience in navigating such situations provide a stabilizing effect, helping families cope more effectively. Guidance through Rituals: Families often seek direction in performing end-of-life rituals correctly and meaningfully. Chaplains offer insights, respect cultural nuances, and sometimes even take the lead in ensuring these rites are conducted reverently. After-death Support: The journey doesn't end with the passing of a loved one. Grief, memories, and the void left behind are real and profound. Chaplains continue to support families, providing bereavement counseling, helping them process their loss, and guiding them toward healing and acceptance. The spiritual dimensions of the end-of-life journey are intricate, deeply personal, and encompass more than just the dying individual. Hospice chaplains, with their nuanced understanding, play an instrumental role in ensuring that this journey, for both the individual and their families, is navigated with dignity, respect, and profound compassion. Continuous Education and Self-care Training: The importance of ongoing training for chaplains to stay updated on best practices and religious rites. Self-care Rituals: Chaplains must cultivate personal rituals or practices to manage their well-being. Peer Support: Engaging with fellow chaplains or professionals to discuss challenges and share experiences. Conclusion The journey towards the end of life is deeply personal, and the spiritual terrain can be complex. Hospice chaplains, with their expertise and compassion, play an indispensable role in facilitating spiritual transitions during this phase. Their ability to address the deep-seated spiritual needs of the dying and their families ensures that the end-of-life journey is one of meaning, reconciliation, and peace. Read Also: Navigating Healthcare: Exploring The Harvest Tech Achievers ETF Seven Stages To Creating A Patient-Friendly Healthcare App The Future Of Healthcare: Adapting To An Aging Society

How to sleep better when you have cancer

How does cancer interfere with sleep?

How to sleep better when you have cancer

Final word

Everything Balding Men Need to Know About Scalp Micropigmentation

Eating Good Quality Foods For Diet

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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How to sleep better when you have cancer

How does cancer interfere with sleep?

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Final word

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Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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