Cancer-related fatigue can disrupt your daily life, and some people may experience it for months or years after recovering from cancer. Here’s everything you need to know about cancer fatigue, as well as expert advice on how to overcome it.
Cancer and cancer treatment can have an impact on one’s physical and mental well-being; they can cause cancer-related fatigue, make you prone to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion despite adequate rest, disrupt your daily life, and some people may experience this type of fatigue for months or years after recovering from cancer. Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment.
Many people with chronic illnesses feel weak and tired, and those suffering from cancer fatigue may find it difficult to get out of bed, walk, sit, eat, and sleep. The fatigue appears suddenly and has an impact on the patient’s overall well-being because the patient is physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted most of the time.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Suhas Aagre, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Hemato-Oncologist at Asian Cancer Institute, revealed, “This fatigue will be seen for several months or even years. You will be surprised to learn that some people who are fatigued as a result of cancer or cancer treatment will struggle to complete their daily tasks, will experience mood swings, will be unable to participate in their favourite hobbies, will be unable to cope with the treatment, and will feel hopeless, depressed, and anxious. Furthermore, cancer-related fatigue affects a large number of people.”
When discussing the causes of cancer fatigue, the health expert blamed cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery for causing fatigue. If you’re wondering who can get cancer-related fatigue, Dr. Suhas Aagre says that all types of cancer and cancer treatments can cause fatigue because the immune system is fighting the disease.
“If you’re unable to cope with cancer fatigue, it’s a good idea to consult a palliative care professional who can help you manage symptoms such as pain, nausea, and depression”,he said, explaining how you can overcome it. Exercise, according to various studies, can relax your mind and body, allowing you to de-stress and calm down. Physical activity, such as light exercises like yoga and walking, can help you sleep better and feel better.
CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) can help you deal with those troubling emotions. Therapy can help you manage stress and sleep better.You can also benefit from face-to-face or online support groups. You can also follow a well-balanced diet to feel energised rather than tired. To relax your mind, you should also consider meditation, massages, and music therapy.”
Cancer fatigue treatment: Expert advice on overcoming cancer fatigue
