What to do about the extreme fatigue that comes with cancer treatment? (Cancer-Related Fatigue) Let's talk!

If you are undergoing treatment for breast cancer or any other cancer, you may feel tired all day long, unable to do anything. In fact, this is a very common side effect of cancer and its treatment. But don't dismiss it as just "tiredness." Today, we'll talk about how to understand this and how to deal with it.

First, let's understand this. Fatigue is not just about normal fatigue. Normal fatigue is something we all feel. When you work hard after a day, it goes away the next day when you get a good night's sleep. But this cancer-related fatigue is not like that. It is an extreme fatigue that you feel all day long, all over your body, and does not go away even after a good night's sleep. Because of this, you can not do even a little of your daily activities, and your quality of life can even decline. Sometimes this condition can last as short as a month. But for some people, this fatigue can continue for six months or even longer.

Why do I feel so tired? What are the reasons?

There is not one reason for this, but several reasons may influence it.

Simply put, cancer cells are like thieves that steal energy and nutrients from healthy cells. This causes the body to lose energy and become unbearably tired.

Also, the treatments we use for cancer are a big reason for this.

• Chemotherapy: Any chemotherapy drug can cause fatigue. Some people only have it for a few days, while others have it throughout treatment, sometimes even after treatment ends.
• Radiation therapy : This treatment can cause fatigue over time. This usually subsides within 3-4 weeks after stopping treatment, but can sometimes last up to 3 months.
• Hormone Therapy: Because these treatments reduce the body's estrogen hormone, fatigue may occur throughout the treatment period.
• Bone Marrow Transplant: This is a somewhat invasive treatment, so it can cause extreme fatigue that lasts for about a year.
• Targeted Therapy : These medications can cause long-lasting fatigue even when taken in high doses.
• Combination Therapy: The risk of fatigue is even higher when more than one treatment is used at the same time or one after the other.
• Surgery: The recovery time after surgery varies from person to person. It is normal to feel some discomfort during this time.

Could there be other reasons?

Yes, definitely. Cancer treatment can cause anemia , which is a decrease in blood volume in the body. This can cause fatigue because the body's cells don't get the oxygen they need.

Also, side effects of treatment such as vomiting, nausea, mouth sores, and diarrhea can cause you to eat less, lack nutrition, and become more tired. Some medications taken for things like pain, nausea, and depression can also cause this fatigue.

Another thing is the decreased function of the thyroid gland, which is a condition called hypothyroidism . This can happen when you have radiation treatment to the neck. Then the body's metabolism slows down and energy production decreases.

How do you rebuild your strength?

This is not something you should do alone. You and your doctor can work together to find solutions.

How can I help the doctor?

The first thing to do is to find out what is causing your fatigue. Your doctor can do blood tests to see if you have anemia or hypothyroidism. If you have such a condition, treating it will help reduce your fatigue. So, don't hide anything and talk openly with your doctor about what you are feeling.

Things you can do yourself

There are several things you can do to manage your energy.

1. Keep a diary of your energy levels:

For about a week, write down the times of day when you feel the most tired and the times when you have the most energy. Think about what might be causing that. This will help you plan your day.

2. Recognize the warning signs of fatigue:

If you are aware of these signs, you can rest before you become too tired.

3. Try these things to save energy:

• Plan your day: Make a to-do list and organize it. If possible, ask a family member or friend for help.
• Control your pace: It's better to work slowly than to work in a hurry.
• Balance rest and work: Focus your energy on the most important tasks. Take a short break before you overdo it.
• Alternate between sitting and standing: When sitting in a chair, use a chair with good back support.
• Reduce bending: Work as upright as possible. If you are lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and lift them with the strength of your legs.
• Limit overhead activities: Rearrange items so they are easy to reach.
• Wear comfortable clothes: Wear light, breathable clothing.
• Avoid extreme heat and extreme cold: Don't take long baths in hot water.

Let's gain strength through good nutrition.

If you don't eat enough food, or if you eat food that is low in nutritional value, this fatigue can increase. A balanced diet can increase your energy.

• Get enough calories: If your weight is stable, you need about 15 calories per pound of your body weight. If you have lost weight, you need to add about 500 more calories per day. Ask your doctor or a nutritionist for specific advice.
• Eat protein-rich foods: Protein is what repairs damaged cells. Dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, and nuts are rich in protein.
• Drink plenty of fluids: This is very important to avoid fatigue due to dehydration. Drink things like water, fruit juice, milk, soups, milkshakes, etc. Reduce caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee).
• Take vitamins: If you're unsure whether you're getting the nutrition you need, ask your doctor if you should take a vitamin supplement.

Let's fight fatigue with exercise.

Cancer and its treatments may make you feel like you need to stay in bed or in a chair. But staying in one place can only increase stress, weakness, and fatigue.

• Be sure to ask your doctor before starting exercise.
• If he gives you permission, start slowly. Give your body time to adjust.
• Try to be active for at least 150 minutes a week.
• If you feel severe pain and fatigue in your body after exercising, it means you are exercising too much.
• Things like swimming, brisk walking, and riding a stationary bike can be good exercises.

When should I call the doctor?

Although cancer-related fatigue is common, it can sometimes be a sign of another health problem. So, tell your doctor or nurse right away if you have any of these symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Uncontrollable pain
• Increased side effects of treatment (vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite)
• Excessive anxiety, restlessness
• Symptoms of Depression

Cancer, Breast Cancer, Cancer Treatment, Fatigue, Cancer-Related Fatigue, Chemotherapy, Radiation, Cancer-Related Fatigue, Energy, Cancer Wellness