Insomnia from Neck Radiation

@harleytiger I believe anything is a possible side effect from radiation. While I have dealt with insomnia, I did not correlate it with radiation. Stress and anxiety are more likely culprits for me. Neck fibrosis has been an issue causing nighttime headaches, though. I found that using a topical NSAID like Voltaren on my neck at bedtime, along with some neck stretches helps considerably. Perhaps the stiffness you experience with a prolonged period of not moving your head on a pillow while sleeping is a cause? of awakening. I have read that very high doses of Melatonin can actually cause sleeplessness so I wondered if you have played with that dose? I take 2 mg at most and it really helps me. Chamomile tea at bedtime can be helpful also.

I’ve read up to 45% of radiated head and neck patients have sleep disturbances. I had same diagnosis but did chemo and 33 rounds of radiation. My sleep has definitely changed, with most days up by 4:30am. Tried numerous meds for anxiety and did not like any of them. I tried music therapy and deep breathing techniques and have had success! I still wake early, but go to bed early and sleep about 8 hours. I too, take 10 mg of melatonin and use CPAP. Try listening to Southwestern Indian flute music and breathing deep and slow !

@bluechip33 On a good night I get to 4:30? I'm going to try to stop with the Melatonin and see if that has any effect? I read long term use can cause negative effects? And long term use is not recommended? I love the Indian Flute music idea, I love that music anyway. Thank you for the ideas and giving me the reassurance that there are others among us with the same issues.

@sepdvm Thank you Sue, I went back and looked at my bottle and it was actually 5mg. I couldn't edit my original post once I looked at the bottle.

Had surgery & 33 radiation sessions ending this past December (2025).
Insomnia has been an ongoing issue since November when dry mouth symptoms started due to effects of radiation salivary glands. Have used tablets for dryness at night with some success as well as using mouthwash using coconut oil for “pulling”. Currently undergoing acupuncture to help stimulate salivary glands regeneration and to balance my energy field within the body.
Typically I get blocks of sleep that last 2-3hrs, but since beginning acupuncture and beginning to walk daily have now been sleeping better (3.5-4.5 hour blocks). Dry mouth is easing slightly as saliva production has started to come back. According to Stanford University website (speech & language) salivary glands typically start to regenerate after two months post radiation.
Keep the faith and get your rest whenever possible, it’s not easy but our bodies need sleep to heal.🙏

@albion223 I don't know what Coconut Oil is for "Pulling?" Also, I'd like to know more about the Acupuncture for the Salivary Gland regeneration? Is that working? My salivary glands need some help.

@harleytiger

Glad it helps! It sure helped me to read about someone who has previously experienced the same road. Oh, I’ve been on melatonin for over 10 years, but check with your Dr. One more thing, my dry mouth is often the culprit that wakes me early. I have to rinse with Biotene dry mouthwash prior to bed and sleep with a Biotene or Act lozenge between cheek and gum(usually two or three per night). Good luck!

@harleytiger
Coconut oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth to potentially improve oral hygiene… Reduces Harmful Bacteria: Studies have found that oil pulling with coconut oil can significantly reduce the count of Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium responsible for tooth decay and plaque buildup & Moisturizes Gums: The fatty acids in the oil can help moisturize the gums and prevent dryness. I use a tablespoon of liquid coconut oil at bedtime (swishing it in my mouth before spitting it out..very important to spit,not swallow)
Studies have shown that acupuncture done after radiation therapy can be effective in reducing dry mouth by stimulating the salivary glands in your mouth. Stanford University speech and language has a webpage on acupuncture therapy that you can Google.
I’ve just started acupuncture treatments (2x) and do notice a slight improvement in my saliva as well as my hands and feet not feeling so cold since I started.

Stanford University
https://med.stanford.edu/content/dam/sm/ohns/documents/Health%20Care/head-neck-surgery/rehabilitation/Pre%20Radiation%20Swallowing%20Exercise%20Packet%20English%20Website%202024.pdf

@albion223 Thank you for the in-depth explanation. I will look into the Coconut Oil and try to find the Stanford speech. Is there brand or type of Coconut oil you use?