Fatigue

Hi Pennylane 520

I do hope someone responds to your post soon. 

If this symptom of fatigue is a recent development, it may be advisable to go to your GP to have a check up and possibly blood done to make sure there isn’t a different reason for the fatigue. 

However, if your fatigue has been on-going it has been found that

• Being active can help with fatigue. Your doctor may also be able to recommend an exercise programme for you -you could ask about being referred to the EXWELL program than may be running near you. .
• You may have to decide which tasks are important to finish and do them over the course of the day or when you have most energy.
• Ask for help at work or at home with any jobs that you find tiring.
• Diet is important - Try to eat a well-balanced diet. Eat little and often if your appetite is poor. Our booklet Diet and Cancer has tips to help.
• If you are not sleeping well, have a good bedtime routine and try relaxation techniques. Avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol in the evening and try not to use electronic devices for an hour before bedtime.
• Short naps (less than an hour) and rest periods can be helpful if they don’t stop you from sleeping at night.
• Try complementary therapies such as meditation, acupuncture, or massage, if your doctor says they’re safe for you.
• Keep a diary of your energy levels: Use the diary pages in our ‘Understanding Fatigue’ book to take note of the times when you feel most and least tired. This can help you to plan your activities. Your doctor may also find your fatigue diary useful.

I hope this has helped if you would like to talk to one of our cancer nurses please do not hesitate to contact us on 1800 200 700 Monday to Friday 9am -5pm. We can post any of our booklets to you also.

Kind regards

Cancer Nurse

Hi Penny Lane
I have no solutions for you but wanted to tell you that your post has given me a lift. I'm currently being treated for bowel & liver cancer and the fact that you're ten years on has given me a hopeful boost.
I really hope you find a solve for your issue. x
Nora