Fatigue

It is common to feel very tired during or after treatment, and you may lack the energy to carry out day-to-day activities. Fatigue for people with cancer is different from tiredness, as it may not go away with rest or sleep. You may lose interest in things that you usually enjoy doing or feel unable to concentrate on one thing for very long. For some people, fatigue continues for months or years after treatment ends.

Let your treatment team know if you are struggling with fatigue. Sometimes fatigue can be caused by a low red blood cell count, or be a side effect of drugs or a sign of depression, which can all be treated. There are often programs available through hospitals and treatment centres to help you manage fatigue.

For more on this, see Fatigue and cancer.

Tips for managing fatigue

• Plan your day. Set small manageable goals and rest before you get too tired.
• Try to keep your schedule as regular as possible, e.g. avoid sleeping in, go to bed at your usual time, and take a short nap if you get tired during the day.
• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet to keep energy levels up.
• Regular light to moderate exercise has been shown to reduce fatigue. Even a walk around the block can help. A physiotherapist or exercise physiologist can develop an exercise program for you, but talk to your doctor first.
• Ask for and accept help from family and friends, e.g. with shopping or childcare.
• Don’t expect to be able to do everything you used to do right away. Gradually increase the amount of activity you do each day.

Podcast: Managing Cancer Fatigue

Listen to more of our podcast for people affected by cancer