Everyone experiences fatigue on occasion. When you don’t get enough sleep, participate in extremely active sports or just spend the whole day mentally challenging yourself, fatigue is natural and expected. This kind of normal fatigue can be relieved with rest. But cancer-related fatigue is a different kind of fatigue, which often occurs as a side-effect of chemotherapy. If you are experiencing cancer-related fatigue due to the side-effects of chemotherapy, consider the following tips to help fight fatigue while you fight cancer.
Tips to Fight Cancer-Related Fatigue
Make a plan
When you fight cancer, some days may be harder than others, so it is a great idea to plan out your activities. Plan your day accordingly and plan the most important activities first. Take time off from work, or work fewer hours during treatment days or surrounding treatment days to combat extreme fatigue.
Ask others for help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help with basic chores, such as going to the grocery store or cleaning the dishes. Do less, and it will help you feel less tired, plus give your body the energy it needs to fight cancer.
Eat and drink healthy
Prepare healthy foods when you have the energy and freeze them to eat later when the fatigue kicks in. Eating healthy and drinking at least eight large glasses of water a day will also help you keep your strength and energy levels up.
Track your energy level
Many people will find it helpful to track when they experience the most fatigue. This will help you plan your day and manage your energy levels. You can also keep track of how you are feeling each day and share it with your doctor so you can both manage the cancer-related fatigue and other side effects.
Exercise can help
When you have the energy, try to exercise as often as possible. Even 15 minutes a day will help keep your strength up. This exercise doesn’t have to be physically intense, simply taking a walk or a short bike ride around the block can help. Other exercises can include stretching, yoga and Tai Chi.
Take the time you need to rest
Even though it is a great idea to exercise every day, also remember to give your body the time it needs to rest. Listen to your body and remember to slow down. The more rested you are, the more strength your body will have to fight and beat cancer. Make a bedtime routine that works for you and always sleep at least eight hours a night during cancer treatment.
Talk to your doctor
It’s important to keep your doctor updated on all the physical and emotional symptoms that come with a cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment. Keep your doctor and cancer care team informed on your progress. They will help you manage the side effects. If you are so exhausted that you struggle to perform normal activities such as using the restroom, tell your doctor. Also, ask your cancer care team for advice about the side effects you experience and how to manage them accordingly.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, an affiliate of The US Oncology Network, is an award-winning multidisciplinary practice providing advanced oncology, hematology, breast surgery and pulmonology services to patients in Southern Nevada. Our clinical research program is one of the largest in Nevada. Visit our website to learn more about Comprehensive or call 702.952.3350 to make an appointment.
