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Cancer and fatigue: Pushing through the fog

By Amanda Genge, Staff Writer, myOptumHealth

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Fatigue can be one of the most challenging side effects of cancer. It's not your everyday, run-of-the-mill tiredness. This kind of exhaustion can be debilitating. Getting more rest doesn't help. The fatigue can interfere with daily living, making it hard or impossible for you to go to work or enjoy life.

What causes cancer-related fatigue?

There are many factors that contribute to fatigue when you have cancer. One cause is the disease itself. If the cancer spreads to bone marrow, it can cause anemia, or low red blood cell count. The cancer may also cause toxic substances to build up in the body. This makes healthy cell function difficult and can make you feel worn out.

Sometimes, the treatments for cancer cause fatigue. Tiredness can be the side effect of certain medications. More intensive treatments like chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant and radiation therapy can wipe out healthy red blood cells, causing anemia. Immunotherapy treatments can also cause side effects, such as flu-like symptoms.

Chronic pain, stress and depression also contribute to fatigue. You may also struggle to meet your nutrition needs. Cancer and its treatment can severely affect your appetite. Being less active or having trouble sleeping can also make you feel tired. At times, other underlying medical conditions not related to the cancer may be causing the fatigue.

Managing fatigue

Fatigue is often caused by a mix of factors, so relief may not be as simple as making one or two changes. Your doctor can tell you if treating possible medical causes, like anemia, will work for you. A medication called epoetin may be used to treat anemia. You might also want to meet with a nutritionist, social worker or other professionals. They can work with you to make healthy changes in other aspects of your life.

In the meantime, these tips might help you get some relief:

• Try relaxation and meditation techniques. Deep breathing, positive imagery and even prayer may make you feel more energized and focused. You also might enjoy pampering treatments like a massage or facial.
• Don't rest too much. Ask your doctor what your activity level should be. It's important to have a good balance of rest and activity. Spending a lot of time in bed may just make you feel more tired. Your doctor may suggest that you break up the day with short periods of activity in between rest times.
• Reduce your workload. If you're still working, maybe it's time to cut back a little. At home, try to get help with chores like cooking and cleaning.
• Get a little exercise. Being physically active can give your energy level a boost. Ask your doctor how much activity is right for you.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, be sure to eat plenty of protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Stay hydrated.
• Allow for bad days. If you just don't feel up to sticking to plans you've made, it's okay to bow out. Your friends and family will understand.

You owe it to yourself

You may be hesitant to speak up about how poorly you feel. But your doctor might be able to help you get relief. Always let your medical team know if you are fatigued so they can try to help you feel better.

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