Fatigue, tiredness and cancer

Fatigue or lack of energy is very common during, or after treatment for cancer.

The information on this page will help you find out more about what fatigue is, how to manage it and how Maggie's can help.

What is cancer related fatigue?

Fatigue is a constant feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.

It can build up over time and can occur any time during or after cancer treatment.

Fatigue may stop you doing normal daily activities and doesn't go away when you rest.

It's usually temporary and will gradually get better as your treatment ends or a short time afterwards. However, some people can experience long-term fatigue. 

You may also hear it called cancer related fatigue or CRF.

Symptoms of fatigue

Symptoms can vary for each person. As well as feeling tired, symptoms of fatigue include:

• Poor concentration and memory
• Difficulty sleeping
• Muscle pains
• Breathlessness after light activity
• A lack of interest in things that you usually enjoy
• Feeling low, anxious, or that you just can’t be bothered to do anything

Managing fatigue

Whilst it may not be possible to avoid fatigue completely during or after treatment, there are ways you can reduce its effects:  
 

Tell your hospital team

You might think it's not worth mentioning but it's really important to let your doctor know about the fatigue you're experiencing because they will be able to help.

They will investigate what is causing your fatigue. It might be your cancer and its treatment or it could be other, unrelated conditions.

Make sure your doctor is aware of any medications you're taking, including supplements, herbal remedies or over the counter medicines.

They may be able to adjust your medication to ease symptoms or side effects that are causing or adding to your fatigue. 
 

Balance exercise and rest

The thought of exercising when you are feeling fatigued can be overwhelming but it is important.

Exercise can help increase energy levels and appetite, as well as, improve sleep and mood during and after cancer treatment.

It's important to find a way of exercising that's right for you and to balance any exercise you do with regular periods of rest. 

We can help you get started – get in touch with your nearest Maggie's to talk to us about what's right for you.
 

Eat well

Eating well is important in helping to reduce fatigue when you have cancer.

A well-balanced diet, avoiding certain foods and drinking enough water can all help boost energy and reduce the effects of fatigue.

Find out more about eating well and cancer.
 

Relaxation

Learning relaxation techniques and breathing exercises can help you to manage troublesome thoughts and reduce stress and anxiety.
 

Sleep

Sleep problems are common when you're feeling fatigued.

Developing strategies to improve your sleep pattern can help boost your energy.
 

Don't overdo it

Think about what you can manage in a day and set realistic goals.

Ask for help with tasks and chores to give you more time to focus on what's important to you.

Maggie's is here with you

We can help. Talk to one of our cancer support specialists about ways to manage your fatigue.

We offer support to help you eat well, a range of different exercise classes, relaxation sessions and sleep workshops.

Get in touch with your nearest centre to discuss what's right for you.

Last review: Dec 2021 | Next review: Dec 2022