Posted on July 07, 2019 by MyMyelomaTeam
Trouble sleeping is a common frustration among members of
MyMyelomaTeam. Insomnia is a common side effect of corticosteroids,
also simply called steroids, which are frequently included in treatment plans
for multiple myeloma (MM).
“The only time I have trouble
sleeping is on days I take steroids,” one member wrote.
Dexamethasone, also called Dex, a
corticosteroid used to treat MM, is one of the top culprits of sleepless nights
for MyMyelomaTeam members: “The days I take Dex I wind up with insomnia.”
Sleepless nights can lead to fatigue and
difficulty functioning during the day. “For at least three days after taking Dex, I can't
sleep. Then by the end of the week I can't get out of bed,” one member
reported.
Some members are able to see the silver lining
to insomnia and other troublesome side effects. “Dex gave me hot flashes,
insomnia, and anxiety,” a member commented. “The good news: It kills myeloma
cells.”
Several members on MyMyelomaTeam have tried
natural sleep remedies like aromatherapy or prescribed sleep aids to manage
insomnia. “I take Ambien on my steroid nights,” one member shared. Others try
to make the best of an unpleasant side effect: “My husband tapes all his
favorite shows and watches them on Dex night!”
Talk to your healthcare provider about ways to
improve your sleep.
On MyMyelomaTeam, the social network and online support group
for those living with myeloma, members talk about a range of personal
experiences and struggles. Insomnia is one of the most discussed topics.
Here are some conversations about insomnia:
·
“I have insomnia really
bad.”
·
“Today is the day I take dex so I will be up all night.”
Here is a question-and-answer thread about insomnia.
·
Anyone have severe hot flashes and fatigue?
Do you struggle with sleepless nights? Share your
experience in the comments below or directly on MyMyelomaTeam.
https://www.mymyelomateam.com/resources/insomnia-and-multiple-myeloma
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