Temporary insomnia is a symptom we all experience at some point in life. In palliative care, the sleep-wake cycle is often disrupted either by physical symptoms or by changes in life circumstances. Sleep may be delayed because of worries and restlessness, or the sleep itself may be restless, resulting in waking up after only a short night’s sleep.
Insomnia in palliative care
A lack of sleep is not a disorder in and of itself, but rather a symptom of something else. The focus is on treating the root cause of insomnia and maintaining good sleep hygiene.
When it comes to insomnia, it’s worth remembering that a lack of sleep is not a disorder in and of itself, but rather a symptom of something else. Instead of just treating or easing the symptom, the focus is on determining the root cause of insomnia.
There are many physical symptoms, such as pain, discomfort, heartburn, sweating, and an increased need to urinate, that both make it harder to fall asleep and interfere with sleep. In addition, depression, anxiety, and fear all make it more difficult to both fall asleep and stay asleep. Treatment of insomnia is always based on an assessment of the root causes, which are treated while also treating the symptoms.
Treatment of insomnia is always based on an assessment of the root causes and on good comprehensive care. Treatment of sleep disorders primarily focuses on maintaining good sleep hygiene.
Complicated cases of insomnia are also treated with insomnia medications, sedatives, or in some cases, antidepressants that have a relaxing effect and make it easier to fall asleep.
Treatment for insomnia mainly consists of self-management and maintaining good sleep hygiene. Sleep hygiene involves making sure that one’s surroundings and behaviour promote falling asleep and sleeping well.
Maintaining good sleep hygiene includes maintaining a natural sleep-wake cycle and following a regular evening routine, as circumstances allow. The sleep environment should be quiet and sufficiently dark, and the temperature should be appropriate. Both the bed and the bed linen should be comfortable to the person using them.
Having drinks containing stimulants (such as coffee, tea, or other drinks with caffeine) before going to bed may make it more difficult to fall asleep. Alcohol may help some people fall asleep because of its sedative effects, but it leads to poorer sleep quality, and if used in the long term, causes issues such as anxiety, dependence, and social problems.
Going over difficult issues and conflicts is not a good idea at night, since it’s natural to be tired after having spent one’s energy and resources over the course of the day. Focusing on enjoyable activities and pleasant memories before bedtime makes it easier to fall asleep.
Updated 7.4.2025