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Sleep problems

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Illness, pain, drugs, being in hospital, and stress can cause sleep problems. Sleep problems may include:

  • having trouble falling asleep
  • sleeping only for short amounts of time
  • waking up in the middle of the night
  • having trouble getting back to sleep.

To help with your sleep problems, you may want to try:

  • reducing noise, dimming the lights, making the room warmer or cooler, and using pillows to support your body
  • dressing in soft, loose clothing
  • going to the toilet before bed
  • eating a high-protein snack two hours before bedtime (such as peanut butter, cheese, nuts, or some sliced chicken or turkey)
  • avoiding caffeine (coffee, teas, colas, hot cocoa)
  • keeping regular sleep hours (avoid naps longer than 30 minutes)
  • talking with your health care team about medications to help you sleep. These may give relief on a short-term basis.