Why is it difficult to sleep when sick and how can I improve my sleep quality?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Being sick often disrupts sleep because your body temperature fluctuates as your immune system fights off illness. Fevers, chills, and night sweats can all make it hard to rest. To sleep better when you're unwell, keep your bedroom cool (around 65°F), use breathable bedding, stay hydrated, and dress in light layers you can easily adjust.

Still, poor sleep during illness can also signal something more than a common cold or flu. Symptoms like persistent fever, night sweats, or fatigue may point to underlying conditions worth investigating. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand what's driving your discomfort and guide your next steps—whether that's rest at home or a visit to a doctor. It only takes a few minutes and could bring you closer to feeling better, faster.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover causes of your sleep difficulties Learn if sleep issues need care Find out what’s behind poor sleep See OTC options for sleep problems Find a doctor for sleep issues Understand home remedies for better sleep Check if sleep problems need treatment

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Explanation

When you are sick, your body might feel hotter or colder than usual, which can make it hard to sleep. This is because your body temperature is linked to how well you sleep. If you're unsure about your symptoms or want to better understand what might be causing your discomfort, try Ubie's Free AI-powered Symptom Checker to get personalized insights.

Here are some tips to help you sleep better when you're sick:

Keep Your Room Cool: A cooler room can help your body feel more comfortable.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body fight off the sickness.
Relax Before Bed: Try reading a book or listening to calming music to help your body relax.
Use a Humidifier: If your nose is stuffy, a humidifier can help you breathe easier.

These steps can help you get better sleep and feel better faster.

(References)

Lack LC, Gradisar M, Van Someren EJ, Wright HR, & Lushington K. (2008). The relationship between insomnia and body temperatures. Sleep medicine reviews, 18603220.
Gallup AC, & Gallup JA. (2013). Frequent yawning as an initial signal of fever relief. Medical hypotheses, 24119765.
Simpson RJ, Campbell JP, Gleeson M, Krüger K, Nieman DC, Pyne DB, et al. (2020). Can exercise affect immune function to increase .... Exercise immunology review, 32139352.

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