Q&A: Fatigue from Chemotherapy

Fighting Chemo Fatigue

Question: I have colon cancer, and have recently started chemotherapy. I am extremely exhausted after each session. Why is this so, and what can I do to fight it? Would having adequate sleep or drinking coffee before each session help?

Answer: Tiredness, lethargy, and fatigue are very common side effects of chemotherapy. The severity and duration of these side effects vary with the types of chemotherapy a patient receives, as well as from individual to individual. You may also notice increasing side effects over time due to the cumulative effects of the treatment.

Here are some ways to overcome fatigue from chemotherapy:

• Get enough rest by keeping to your regular sleep schedule. Rest during the day if you feel tired.
• Start on a light exercise programme, such as brisk walking in the early morning or late evening. Consult your doctor on the suitability of such exercises.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Eat small, frequent meals to help you overcome other chemotherapy-related side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, which may lower your energy levels.

Drinking caffeinated beverages is unlikely to alter the effectiveness of your cancer treatment, but these are also unlikely to reduce the fatigue you are experiencing.

Continue with your regular social engagements and activities as much as possible. Keeping your mind and social life active will provide the necessary motivation and emotional support for you go through and complete your treatment.

Read these next:

• Nutrition During Cancer Therapy
  
• Supportive Care and other services