Managing Your Cancer Treatment-Related Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness that can keep you from doing the
things you normally do or want to do. Fatigue is very common among
people receiving cancer treatments. Factors such as cancer itself, low
blood counts, nutritional problems, and sleep problems contribute to
fatigue, but the exact cause is not known.
Signs of Fatigue:
- You feel weary or exhausted. It may be physical, emotional,
and/or mental exhaustion.
- Your body, especially your arms and legs, may feel heavy.
- You have less desire to do normal activities like eating or
shopping.
- You may find it hard to concentrate or think clearly.
What You Can Do to Manage Your Fatigue:
- REST
Rest and sleep are important, but don't overdo it. Too much rest can
decrease your energy level. In other words, the more you rest, the
more tired you will feel. If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your
doctor or nurse.
- ACTIVITY
Stay as active as you can. Regular exercise like walking several
times each week may help.
- NUTRITION
Drink plenty of liquids. Eat as well as you can, and eat nutritious
foods.
- ENERGY CONSERVATION
You can do more by spreading your activities throughout the day.
Take rest breaks between activities. Rest breaks save energy for the
things you want to do. Let others help you with meals, housework, or
errands. Do not force yourself to do more than you can manage.
- ENERGY RESTORATION
Do activities that you enjoy and make you feel good. Many people
enjoy nature activities such as bird watching or gardening. Try
listening to music, or visiting with friends and family, or looking
at pleasant pictures. Try to do these activities at least three
times per week.
Talk to Your Nurse . . .
- If you have been too tired to get out of bed for the past 24
hours.
- If you feel confused or cannot think clearly.
- If your fatigue becomes worse.
Source:
Lynette Radke, RN, MS, OCNŽ,
Marshfield Cancer Center, Marshfield, WI.
Melissa Donofrio, RN, BA, OCNŽ,
Miller-Dwan Medical Center, Duluth, MN.
Marilyn Grainger, RN, MS, OCNŽ,
Regional Cancer Center, Waukesha, WI.
Rosanne Schultz, RN, MS, OCNŽ,
Lutheran Hospital, LaCrosse, WI. |
Lack of understanding within a family about cancer fatigue can lead to
communication problems, resentment, and feelings of guilt. |
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