Energy Matters: Small Steps to Ease Fatigue During Cancer Care

Have you experienced a deep level of fatigue as you progress through your cancer treatment? You are not alone! You are not making it up! It is not "all in your head." According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 80% of patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation report experiencing fatigue.

Sometimes fatigue is caused by how your body responds to cancer, using nutrients and energy to fight cancer cells, or by the changes in hormone levels caused by the cancer, or perhaps you are anemic as a result of cancer. All of these influence your energy levels.

Sometimes you experience fatigue because of the treatment you receive for cancer. After surgery, your body will use energy reserves to heal. During chemotherapy and radiation or other treatments, patients frequently report increased levels of fatigue at different stages of treatment.

Sometimes, the emotional and spiritual aspect of receiving a cancer diagnosis contributes to the level of fatigue you experience.

Your fatigue is real. But there are small steps you can take to ease or even improve fatigue during cancer care. Here are six small changes that may help improve your energy levels.

1.       Talk with your doctor, an essential first step!

Your oncologist and radiation therapist can help you explore any physical causes of your fatigue. They are experts on your lab results, nutritional status, and how your treatments may be affecting you at this point in your journey. Talk with your physician about the fatigue you are experiencing. Allow them to help you take positive steps toward treating fatigue holistically.

2.       Prioritize Activities.

 Physicians at The Southern Cancer Center recommend that you evaluate your activities and make daily routine changes that benefit you. Build a routine that helps you conserve energy and spread out activities so you can build in rest periods. Prioritize sleep and rest; a healthy adult needs between 6-8 hours of sleep each night. During treatment, you may need more.

3.       Ask for help / Allow others to assist you.

Asking for help can be very difficult, especially if you are the one others have "always depended on." You may feel as if you are letting others down or shirking your duties. But for right now, I encourage you to delegate some tasks or responsibilities. Truthfully, your loved ones are often searching for ways to support you; accepting help is your gift to them. You have poured into the lives of so many; let others show their love and care for you by helping with tasks that feel overwhelming right now.

4.       Exercise

I know, this sounds counterintuitive. But gentle to moderate exercise is beneficial to many people who are in treatment for cancer. The National Cancer Institute recommends walking to improve energy levels. First, talk with your doctor and allow their expertise to guide you in choosing an activity that is appropriate for you at this time. Then, as advised, begin with a gentle exercise plan.

5.       Embrace Emotional/Spiritual Practices

Don't overlook the benefits of prayer, meditation, or even journaling to help with fatigue. Build in a practice that supports your inner life; many patients report increased feelings of well-being, which, in turn, support their energy levels. Emotional/Spiritual practices are excellent tools in your toolbox as you battle fatigue.

6.       Focus on Nutrition

Talk with your physician about your specific nutritional needs and any contraindications for you at this point in treatment. Some patients find a referral to a Registered Dietitian helpful in creating an eating plan that supports them during treatment. Based on your physician's recommendations, focus on including appropriate amounts of protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to stabilize your energy, support your immune system, and support your recovery. You may find it beneficial to eat smaller more frequent meals at this time. Also, you may find it helpful to drink some of your calories if you have mouth pain.

These six small steps can help you manage your energy levels and ease fatigue during cancer treatments. Try incorporating one or two at a time; don't add the burden of perfection to each one! Start with an honest conversation with your physician, include your loved ones and support system, and choose one that sounds like an easy win today!