Cancer Related Fatigue
Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF): 11 Ways to Help Your Treatment Team Help You
Bethany Smith, RD, LD, CDE
Nutritionist, Georgia Cancer Specialists, PC
Despite the number of patients wh suffer from CRF (90% or more), the causes and best treatment options are still unclear. Often, cancer centers d not address CRF with patients, simply because they aren’t aware of successful ways t manage fatigue. At least 30% of patients report fatigue lasting months t years beyond treatment.
If you are suffering from cancer-related fatigue, ask for help in managing this often under-reported, under-diagnosed and under-treated symptom. Remember – quality of life matters – and fatigue often impacts this the most. Use these suggestions below:
Talk with a Registered Dietitian about diet and hydration.**
Schedule time for rest as well as activity and meals.
Exercise
- 15-30 minutes most days of the week
- If you have not been exercising, talk with your healthcare team before you begin.
- If you want t start walking, begin very slowly with five minutes each day, monitor how you feel, then increase the length of time each week.
Control your pain
Discuss your current medications with your physician, nurse, dietitian or pharmacist.
- Medications for pain, high blood pressure, depression, nausea and allergies can all cause fatigue.
Request lab tests**
- CBC, CMP, thyroid panel
When it comes to sleeping, quality counts – not quantity.
- Staying in bed all day will not make CRF better. Try t g t bed and get up at the same time each day.
Treat depression.
- Talk with a friend, pastor or family member, or ask your physician for a referral t a counselor or psychologist. Antidepressant medication is not always necessary, but talking with a professional may help.
Choose activities that help restore your thought processes.**
- Often the mind is tired, not just the body. T help restore your mind, sit outside at a park and watch children play or listen t a relaxation CD. If you feel strong enough, take a yoga or meditation class.
See your primary care physician t help evaluate any other illnesses you may have.
- D you have another health condition that could be causing fatigue? Lung disease, congestive heart failure and uncontrolled diabetes can all make you feel tired.
Talk with your oncologist if you are interested in trying a medication t help with fatigue.
- If all of these suggestions d not help, there are prescription medications available t treat fatigue. Amphetamines, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®), or antidepressants may be helpful
References:
- Ahlbert K, Ekman T, Gaston-Johansson F, Mock V. Assessment and management of cancer-related fatigue in adults. Lancet 2003; 362: 640-47.
- Escalante CP, Manzull E, Valdres R. A cancer-related fatigue clinic: opportunities and challenges. J NCCN 2003; 1: 333-43.