Cancer-Related Fatigue

What is Fatigue?

Fatigue is the feeling of being very, very tired. You are not able to do the activities you usually do. It is the most common side effect of cancer treatment.

Rest does not always make it better, and only you know the level of your fatigue.

Some symptoms of fatigue include:

• Feeling like you have no energy
• Sleeping a lot
• Not wanting to do normal activities
• Not being able to do normal activities
• Not caring about the way you look
• Feeling tired even after sleeping
• Having trouble thinking

What Can You Do?

Some steps you can take to alleviate fatigue include:

• Rest, But Not Too Much
  • Rest in-between activities
• Stay Active
  • Stay as active as you can
  • Exercising, such as walking, can make you feel better
• Save Your Energy
  • Plan ahead
  • Spread your activities throughout the day
  • Do your most important activities first
• Get Help With Tasks
  • Don't overdo it
  • Ask your family or friends to help you do things
• Get Support
  • Think about joining a support group
  • Talk about how you are feeling with others
• Eat Well
  • See our Nutrition tips for advice on how to eat and drink healthy.

How Long Will Fatigue Last?

Once your treatment is over, the fatigue will slowly go away over time.