Life can look very different during the days and weeks after surgery. Your focus revolves around recovering from the surgery, but trouble sleeping can make both the days and nights seem even more difficult. If pain, discomfort, or other complications keep you up at night, consider these tips for sleeping well after surgery.

Bedtime routine

Surgery throws off a lot of regular habits, so it’s important to find a bedtime routine that works for you after the operation. Avoid excessive napping throughout the day—sleeping too much will throw off your sleep schedule at night. It’s also a good idea to stop drinking caffeine in the afternoon. Once you receive clearance to bathe, wind down for the evening with a warm shower or bath. You can also try listening to relaxing music or audio programs specifically designed to help people fall asleep. Find a routine that suits your needs and stick to it every night.

Medication

One of the biggest tips for sleeping well after surgery is to take medications. It’s likely that your doctor prescribed pain medications for you after the surgery. If pain from the surgery still keeps you up at night, talk to your doctor about changing your prescription. You can also ask about sleep medication. However, you should discuss any medicines with your doctor before taking them. Even over-the-counter medications can cause issues when combined with prescription medicines.

Get comfortable

The key to sleeping on any night is to get comfortable, but surgery can make that difficult. Try a few different positions or locations to find the most comfortable situation for you. Make sure you also have plenty of pillows arranged to fit your needs. Your doctor might also prescribe compression garments, which can help ease discomfort and make it easier for you to fall and stay asleep. If light or noise bother you, invest in a sleep mask or a pair of earplugs to help you rest peacefully.