Managing Cancer Related Fatigue

By Sarah Buenviaje, NP

Cancer Related Fatigue can be a symptom of your cancer, or a side effect from cancer treatment.

Normal day-to-day activities can be draining, and sleep may only provide a short reserve of energy.

Fatigue affects every part of us, our physical, mental and emotional being. Cancer patients experience fatigue most during and/or post treatment. This lack of energy causes a change in our daily activities, hobbies, work and our relationships.

Talk to your doctor about your fatigue. They can help to determine what is causing your fatigue and may be able to help manage this symptom. There are other things that you can do to help manage your symptoms.

• Remember, fatigue is  a physical, mental, and emotional draining of energy. Talk to your health care provider about managing symptoms like anemia, and pain.
• Take rest breaks in your day, but avoid long naps in the late day so that you are able to sleep well at night.
•  Human connection is very important in battling depression, which is closely linked to fatigue. Enjoy the company of a friend when possible.
• Meeting with a dietitian to help establish your nutritional needs is recommended to help fight fatigue. Eating the right foods can give added energy. Make sure you are getting plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Delegate your needs. Adjusting to a lifestyle with cancer related fatigue can be difficult. Please ask friends and family members for help. Minimizing the amount of tasks you need to complete in a day can provide time to do things you enjoy.
• Everyone has their own way of relaxing. Enjoy activities that do not require physical energy. Reading, needlework, listening to music or creating small art projects are some suggestions.
• Consult your physician on the appropriate exercises you are able to do such as walking, yoga, or swimming. Exercising regularly helps to improve appetite, muscle strength, and sleep.

Each person’s fatigue is unique and it is important to talk to your doctor about what may work best for you. Keep a ‘Fatigue Diary’ that shows a scale 0 -10, and the activities you are able to perform. By keeping track of your treatment appointments, diet, and exercise you may be able to learn what works best for you in improving your energy.