Fatigue and Weakness

Fatigue, tiredness and weakness are common side effects associated either with cancer or following treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Anxiety, pain, stress, depression, lack of sleep, poor diet, or having low hemoglobin may contribute to fatigue. An abnormal hemoglobin is 8.0 or below. If these suggestions to minimize fatigue don’t help, please suggest to the cancer patients you’re working with that they should contact their physician.

Minimizing Fatigue, Tiredness or Weakness

• Rest during the day and when feeling tired. Rest prior to an activity to ensure energy. Ask family members and friends to help with daily household chores when needed.
• Eat high-protein, high-carbohydrate foods such as cereals, meats, breads, nuts, beans and seafood.
• Use vitamins and mineral supplements prescribed by a physician.
• Sexual desire may diminish during your course of treatment. Plan time for intimacy.
• Use the four “Ps” to practice energy conservation and work simplified:
  • Planning – Try to plan out the day’s activity in advance. Don’t start activities that can’t be stopped in the middle in case the cancer patient becomes tired.
  • Priorities – Decide what tasks or activities are most important and what is optional. Plan accordingly and distinguish those activities that must be done by the cancer patient from those that can be done by others. Remind the cancer patient that it’s okay to ask for help when he or she needs to.
  • Pacing – The cancer patient should pace him or herself with each completed task. Take breaks or naps as needed. Balance activities with rest and relaxation.
  • Positioning – Use good body mechanics while working. Sit, if possible, while doing a task. Push instead of carry. An occupational therapist can help the cancer patient with additional ways to conserve energy.

This information is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. A cancer patient should always seek the advice of his or her physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment.