Risk Factors
The sleep disorders most likely to affect patients with cancer are insomnias and disorders of the sleep-wake cycle. Effects of tumor growth and cancer
treatment that may cause sleep disturbances include:
For more information on managing symptoms and side effects, see PDQ Cancer Information Summaries: Supportive and Palliative Care.
Patients may have sleep interruptions due to
treatment schedules, hospital routines, and roommates. Other factors affecting
sleep during a hospital stay include noise, temperature, pain, anxiety, and the
patient's age. Chronic sleep disturbances can cause irritability, inability to
concentrate, depression, and anxiety. While in the hospital, sleep disorders
may make it hard for the patient to continue with cancer therapy.
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