How to Sleep with a Chemo Port?

A lot of patients who are undergoing long-term chemotherapy treatments get implanted with a chemo port. The ports usually cause discomfort, and some think how the port might interrupt with getting a good night’s sleep. So, we have pointed out some ways to mitigate your pain so you can sleep better at night. 

What is a chemo port?

The chemo port is a small reservoir that contains a soft tube (catheter) which is attached to a large vein. A main advantage of wearing a port for people having chemotherapy is that fluids can easily flow into the veins via this port. Also, the port reduces the need for any needles for other procedures such as drawing blood, since the chemo port can easily draw blood for you. The chemo port placement is normally under the skin in the upper chest to access a large vein. It depends on the patient and their doctor to decide how long the port is required to be worn. It could stay there for days, weeks, months, or even years. All of this depends on your treatment. 

How to sleep with a chemo port?

The chemo port may cause some discomfort, but don't worry, it will subside in a short span of time. After some days, you would not even know it’s there. Many people are concerned with chemo port restrictions, but thankfully there are not any. You can easily swim, shower, drive and go about your activities just the way you normally do. Moreover, a small alterations to your normal sleep routine will allow you to sleep without feeling your port at all.

Tips to Help Sleep With a Chemo Port

Sleep facing up

Laying face down may put some pressure on your port and may cause you some discomfort. Because these ports are implanted under the skin, they can cause some discomfort in the region early on. Exerting pressure on the port might cause some pain. So, make sure to lay facing up. 

Get a suitable mattress and pillows

Anything that can assist you in sleeping comfortably will help alleviate the discomfort of the chemo port. Hence, it is important that you do not have any pillows that may cause a strain on your neck or a mattress that hurts your back. If possible, try to build a comfortable sleeping environment for yourself. 

Place pillows around yourself

Having pillows around yourself is an amazing way to avoid tossing and turning constantly during the night. These will keep you from moving unnecessarily that may pull the skin around your chemo port and can cause you discomfort. Furthermore, these will also keep you from sleeping in a face-down position. 

Find the most comfortable position to sleep in

Many people have the habit of sleeping on their side. If you are one of them then make sure you're sleeping on the side that does not have the port attached. Due to this, you will avoid putting pressure on the port. Also, laying flat on your back is the best way to sleep with a chemo port. Not only this, side sleeping may also prevent you from any possible discomfort. 

Wear loose and soft clothing

It is always a great idea to wear soft fabrics around the chemo port. Wearing loose comfortable clothing also reduces any added pressure on the chemo port that will help you sleep better. 

Here at Reboundwear, our goal is to provide you with clothes that are comfortable, attractive, and functional so that getting treatments is easy. They’re stylish enough to wear throughout the day and cozy enough to sleep in.  Click here to check out our store, and learn more.