Pain often affects someone’s sleep quality, amount of sleep, and ability to fall asleep. If pain is treated then sleep usually improves.

If the pain is treated and sleep is still a problem, there may be other options. A variety of medications may help. An anti-anxiety medication, which has sedative effects, can promote calm, so someone can fall asleep more readily. Often, a person who is dying feels anxiety, so a sedative can ease that also.

A person’s environment can significantly affect sleep. A hospital setting may not be restful, and may contribute to sleeping difficulties. Lowered lighting, decreased noise, a sleep routine and relaxation strategies may improve sleep without the use of medications.