Sleeping Better

Good quality sleep is important for overall health and allows our bodies to repair and regenerate properly. A lack of sleep can impact the body, both mentally and physically.

Good quality sleep before and after your operation is important to allow your body to recover from the stress of surgery.

Reasons to sleep better before surgery

  • Improved immune system
  • Shorter hospital stay
  • Less pain after your surgery

Other reasons to sleep better

  • Improved mood and mental wellbeing
  • Better concentration
  • Reduced risk of chronic health problems

Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night. The majority of sleep problems are due to ‘bad habits’ before or during the night. These can include:

  • Not having a regular bedtime routine
  • Doing stimulating activities before bed – such as using mobile phones / computers or drinking energy drinks and coffee
  • Drinking excess alcohol before bed [which leads to poor quality of sleep]
  • The bedroom is too hot or two cold

  • NHS Better Health has list of tips to help you fall asleep and sleep better
  • Sleepstation is an NHS approved sleep improvement programme. It is a 6-week online course for people who struggle to fall or stay asleep and is tailored to your needs. [Subscription or may be free with a GP referral]
  • Pzizz is a free app to help you relax, fall asleep and stay asleep.