Coping With Cancer Related Fatigue

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

20 Dec 2007 02:12 PM

Cancer -- and cancer treatments -- leave some people with a condition known as cancer related fatigue (CRF).

Cancer related fatigue is different from everyday tiredness. The main symptom of cancer related fatigue is an overwhelming feeling of tiredness. Even the simplest activities (like shopping or eating) can be exhausting. Other symptoms that are common in people who are being treated for cancer whether or not they experience CRF include:

• Sleep difficulties.
• Stress.
• Loss of appetite.
• Low blood counts.

So what can you do to pick up your energy levels? Here are some tips to help you cope with cancer related fatigue.

• Try a ginseng supplement. Talk to your doctor first, but studies have shown that American ginseng doesn't generally interact or interfere with cancer treatment. About twenty-five percent of people with cancer related fatigue experience an improvement in energy levels.
• Try energy work. Reiki and other forms of energy work may help relieve cancer related fatigue. Some people find that acupuncture or acupressure treatments can boost energy.
• Take care of your stress. Having cancer is stressful! Find some peace through meditation, deep breathing exercises, visualization, or a relaxing massage.
• Take care of your moods. Depression can really sap your energy. Talking to a health care professional or a mental health expert can help you deal with negative feelings.
• Stay active. Yes, it sounds weird to suggest activity as a remedy for fatigue. However, a daily walk can reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve your nightly sleep. If you can manage moderate activity for thirty minutes most days of the week, you may find your cancer related fatigue easing.

Different things work for different people. You may need to try a combination of things until you find what works for your cancer related fatigue! Your doctor and other health care professionals may have other suggestions to help you boost your energy levels.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

View Full Profile | More from this Blogger

mcmama (51978) 20 Dec 2007 07:31 PM

I got off easy with just surgery - no chemo as of yet, hopefully never. But I experience a lot of fatigue, even now that the six month checkup is due. I have noticed that a ginseng supplement makes me feel much better, and I note the difference when I forget to take it.