MANAGING YOUR CANCER TREATMENT-RELATED FATIGUE
Factors that contribute to fatigue:
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO MANAGE YOUR FATIGUE
Rest
Rest and sleep are important, but don’t overdo it. Too much rest can decrease your energy level.
Activity
Stay as active as you can. Regular exercise, such as walking several times each week, may help. Set short-term goals for yourself (i.e., 10 minutes, two blocks), and then increase as you are able.
Nutrition
Drink plenty of liquids. Eat as well as you can, and eat nutritious foods. Carbohydrates and proteins are quick energy foods. Supplements, although nutritious, haven’t been proven to directly reduce fatigue.
Energy Conservation
You can do more by spreading your activities throughout the day. Take rest breaks between activities. Do not force yourself to do more than you can manage.
SUGGESTED STRATEGIES FOR ENERGY CONSERVATION
Activities of Daily Living
• Sit down to bathe and dry off. Wear a terry robe instead of drying off.
• Use a shower/bath organizer to decrease leaning and reaching.
• Install grab rails in the bathroom.
• Use extension handles on sponges and brushes.
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