Education

What is it?

Cancer related fatigue (CRF) is a sudden and intense feeling of exhaustion and weakness that is not relieved by rest. CRF can occur anytime during or after treatment, and can last for months.

What causes Cancer Related Fatigue?

We don't know what specifically causes CRF. We do know that good nutrition, mild exercise, and stress management can help. We also know that too much sleep can be as bad as not enough sleep.

What are the signs and symptoms of CRF?

• Your body, arms and legs may feel heavy.

• Decreased desire to do usual activities.

• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly.

• Feeling weary or exhausted even after adequate rest.

What can you do to manage Cancer Related Fatigue?

Know your nutritional needs. Talk to your doctor, nurse, or dietician and identify your calorie, protein, and fluid requirements. Take your anti-nausea medication as prescribed to help improve your appetite.

Check with yoru doctor or nurse about starting a mild exercise program like; walking, an exercise bike or yoga.

Conserve your energy. Plan your day, alternate activity and rest periods. Let others help with errands and housework.

Take care of your emotional self. Try to do something you enjoy several times a week. Get a hobby. Learn something new. Join a support group, sharing your feelings and ideas with others can help.

Tell your doctor or nurse:

• If you feel dizzy or have trouble keeping your balance.

• If you fall.

• Experience increased fatigue.

• You have shortness of breath or a cough.

• Have trouble waking up in the morning or staying awake.

• Experience increased confusion.

• Have trouble sleeping.

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment. There are ways to manage CRF, talk to your doctor or nurse about what you can do.

SELF-CARE MEASURES TO FIGHT FATIGUE

• Recognize that cancer patients are at risk for experiencing fatigue. It takes time to recover from treatments and individuals respond differently.

• Identify causes of fatigue and pace activities.

• Set realistic goals and priorities.

• Take short rest periods in between periods of activity. Naps are helpful if they don't disrupt night sleep.

• Manage pain effectively. Pain causes your body to use extra energy.

• Drink 6-10 glasses of liquids a day. Water and juice are best.

• Build and use support systems. Let others help.

• Use distraction to take your mind off yourself. Try relaxation, visual imagery, meditation.

Resource: Wake Up to Cancer Fatigue Oncology Nursing Society 1997

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MANAGING FATIGUE/IMAGERY