Research out of Emory University by Kathy Parker PhD, RN, shows that advanced cancer patients often experience sleep of poor quality. Parker's recent study shows that many patients have trouble staying awake and trouble staying asleep. In addition, increased daytime sleep was shown to decrease the quality of their nighttime sleepDepression, pain and fatigue play a role in sleep disruption, along with the use of opioids, which can change natural circadian rhythms according to Dr. Parker.
If you or a loved one is experiencing disturbed sleep, know that you are not alone and press your doctor for more information on how better sleep can be achieved.
