Cancer-Related Fatigue, or Cancer Fatigue, isn't just an inconvenience. Many people battling cancer describe it as a constant, unwanted companion impacting physical, emotional, and mental health.

If you find yourself grappling with exhaustion despite plenty of rest, you're not alone.

Below is a summary of information collected from recognized scientific educational sources describing some of the contributing factors, symptoms, and effective coping strategies for cancer-related fatigue.

[Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance. No representation or endorsement is made or suggested with respect to any medical product or therapy.]

What is Cancer Fatigue?

Cancer fatigue isn't your run-of-the-mill weariness; it's an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion that persists despite attempts at rest or sleep (Source: National Cancer Institute, "Cancer-Related Fatigue." It can manifest at any stage of the cancer journey, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. As one woman described, “It will come out of nowhere and hit me like a tidal wave. I feel like a young child, needing naps throughout the day.”

While the exact cause remains elusive, the prevailing thinking is that cancer fatigue may stem from the disease process itself, treatment modalities, and a combination of physical, psychological, and emotional elements (Source: MDAnderson, “Fatigue and Cancer”).

What are the Symptoms of Cancer Fatigue?

With cancer fatigue, you may experience exhaustion without a clear trigger, even after minimal activity (Source: The Cleveland Clinic, “Cancer Fatigue”). Individuals describe it as a draining tiredness that doesn't go away with rest or sleep. One 33-year-old cancer survivor posted online that it feels like “running 50 miles every day and then having to continue a normal day afterward.”

What's Behind Cancer Fatigue?

Several factors have been suspected to contribute to cancer-related fatigue (Source: Mayo Clinic, “Cancer Fatigue: Why it Occurs and How to Cope”):

• Cancer Treatment: Therapies like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery have been linked to decreased energy levels.
• Hormonal Changes: Some people experience increased or decreased hormone levels during and after treatment.
• Daily Routine: Despite battling cancer, many individuals attempt to maintain their regular level of activity, further depleting their energy reserves.
• Anemia: Certain treatments can lower red blood cell counts, leading to anemia and exacerbating fatigue.
• Emotional Strain: Anxiety, depression, and stress can intensify fatigue, complicating coping mechanisms.
• Sleep Disruptions: Pain, discomfort, medication side effects, and emotional distress can disrupt sleep patterns, worsening fatigue.
• Nutritional Needs: Changes in appetite and taste during treatment may result in nutritional deficiencies, contributing to fatigue.

Managing the Exhaustion:

If you're struggling with cancer-related fatigue, reach out to your healthcare team for guidance and support.

Here are some strategies that have been found to help manage fatigue (Source: Cleveland Clinic, "Cancer Fatigue"). As always, check with your doctor first.

• Move: Engage in gentle exercises like walking, yoga or even light chores to combat fatigue and boost energy levels (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, “Managing Cancer-Related Fatigue with Exercise”).
• Stay Hydrated: Ensure adequate hydration throughout the day to combat dehydration, which can worsen fatigue.
• Get Enough Rest: Listen to your body's signals and allow for adequate rest. Short naps and a consistent sleep schedule can be beneficial.
• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Focus on a nutrient-rich diet comprising fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support overall health. A recent study found that diets high in vegetables, fruit, whole grains and oily fish can help reduce cancer fatigue (Source: AICR, “How Nutrition can Help Fight Cancer Fatigue”).
• Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to reduce stress levels.
• Seek Support: Lean on your healthcare team, loved ones, or support groups for emotional support and practical assistance.
• Track Your Day: Monitor your energy levels throughout the day and note any contributing factors to fatigue to share with your doctor.

Cancer-related fatigue can have a profound impact on quality of life. By understanding the causes of fatigue and implementing strategies to manage it, you can regain a sense of control and improve your overall well-being. One breast cancer survivor said that “Exercise, eating healthy, and meditation are things I cannot go without and have helped me get my strength back.”

Remember to be patient with yourself and prioritize self-care as you navigate your cancer journey. Many report that their fatigue got better over time, even if it didn’t totally disappear.

Additional Sources of Information:

1. American Cancer Society, "Managing Fatigue or Weakness."
2. Cleveland Clinic, “Cancer Fatigue: What it Feels like & How to Overcome it.”
3. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, "Cancer and Complementary Health Approaches: What You Need To Know."
4. Breastcancer.org, “Cancer Fatigue.”
5. Breast Cancer Now, "Extreme tiredness (cancer-related fatigue)."