Can't sleep during treatment

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T3rri
T3rri Member Posts: 23
in Head and Neck Cancer #1

My husband has just completed 10/35 radiation treatments and 2 Cisplatin treatments. He has lost his tastebuds and has no interest in eating within the last 2 days. He describes his mouth as being coated with the most disgusting layer of cheap butter.  He is forcing smoothies at this point, did have a feeding tube inserted prior to treatment and is willing to use it. One of his bigger issues is that he just cannot sleep. He needs to get drinks every few minutes and just can't get comfortable. He is exhausted. Does anyone have any helpful tips on how to get some rest? I feel so bad for him and helpless, don't know what to do for him. Thanks!

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  • CivilMatt
    CivilMatt Member Posts: 4,722 Member
    #2
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    It is a Bear, grrrrrrrrrrrr

    T3rri,

    On a H&N high note, “he is almost halfway”.

    Does he have a nice recliner and blanket?  I slept whenever I could. Taking drinks throughout the night goes hand in hand with having to get up to pee (it is a vicious cycle), but one you almost have to do.

    I once put a can of Crisco on the table to explain to my parents what eating was like.

    If he can’t get any sleep, remember to keep his tem informed and make sure all the little things are taken care of.  I had a whole procedure of coughing, hacking, rinsing and taking a couple of hits of Magic Mouth wash before hitting the rack.

    Keep hydrated and nourished and swallow often.

    I’m done bye,

    Matt

  • T3rri
    T3rri Member Posts: 23
    #3
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    CivilMatt said:

    It is a Bear, grrrrrrrrrrrr

    T3rri,

    On a H&N high note, “he is almost halfway”.

    Does he have a nice recliner and blanket?  I slept whenever I could. Taking drinks throughout the night goes hand in hand with having to get up to pee (it is a vicious cycle), but one you almost have to do.

    I once put a can of Crisco on the table to explain to my parents what eating was like.

    If he can’t get any sleep, remember to keep his tem informed and make sure all the little things are taken care of.  I had a whole procedure of coughing, hacking, rinsing and taking a couple of hits of Magic Mouth wash before hitting the rack.

    Keep hydrated and nourished and swallow often.

    I’m done bye,

    Matt

    Thanks

    Thanks, Matt. Sounds like from what you are telling me he is "normal". He has the Rons Rum, but I don't think that is the same as the magic mouthwash.  I will take your suggestion and encourage him to try sleeping in different locations if He can't get comfortable. Your experience and thoughts are greatly appreciated and helpful. Thanks!

     

  • The Gander
    The Gander Member Posts: 5
    #4
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    GETTING REST/ER VISIT

    For me I'am Vetran, weeks before this "blew in" I have requsted a Hospital Bed. Which I am using to sleep upright.  If not my experience from my (2nd Go Round/w SCC in tongue) was ER visit and (2) Days in Hospital for Sleep Depavition/Pain Meds.adjustment.  Also I'm up for the 3rd time, as I have had a recurrence (I was 7 and half Years Cancer Free) treatment starts Jan 9, 2017.   I  bid you Peace.  Keep thy Faith.

  • donfoo
    donfoo Member Posts: 1,771 Member
    #5
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    MMJ

    Depending on where you live, you may have the option to obtain medical marijuana. Certain types help sleep for many.

  • SASH
    SASH Member Posts: 421 Member
    edited January 2017 #6
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    Adding Pillows

    You can try adding pillows or I used a back rest to sleep.  I had this on its back with the arms to the sides so it increased the angle of my head.  This with a pillow on top raised my head enough that I was able to get some sleep.  Doing the water sip throughout the night is pretty normal as you either deal with the lack of sleep or wake up with such dry mouth that you can't move your mouth and are in pain.  For some of us, the dry mouth doesn't change.

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