Cancer comes with
many symptoms the likes of which differ depending on the type of cancer. But
most cancer patients can usually agree on one thing - cancer wipes you out as
far as energy levels. If it’s not the cancer itself, it’s the related
treatments that can bring on unprecedented fatigue; a lack of energy that can
interfere with your everyday life and prevent you from engaging in your normal
activities.
Most people
understand that fatigue is just a part of the package when it comes to cancer
and its treatment. But that doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a total
lack of energy. There are things that you can do to help manage fatigue and
increase your energy levels so that you can live a higher quality of life
during your treatment.
Exercise. As counterintuitive as it may seem (who
wants to exercise when you are so tired?), exercise is one of the ways that you
can actually increase energy levels. Just a small amount of activity on a daily
basis - taking a short walk, engaging in a low level exercise class,
stretching, yoga - can work to start building up your energy.
Say no. Now is not the time to say yes to
everything you are invited to participate in regardless of the perceived
importance of these activities. Ask someone you trust to help you prioritize so
that you can determine what is worth saying yes to and what you should pass on
for now.
Ask for help. Well-meaning friends and family have
likely offered their share of help in whatever way you need it. Now is a good
time to take them up on these offers of kindness to help reduce your workload
and preserve your energy.
Take time off from work. If you are able to
take a leave of absence it may be helpful to do so for at least a short period
of time. If not, see if you can make alternative arrangements such as working
partially from home or using, sick, personal, and vacation time by spreading it
out to include one or a few days off per week.
Engage in relaxing activities. Mediation,
massage, acupuncture, etc. can all go a long way towards helping you relax and
feel more rested.
Sleep.
It may seem obvious if you’re feeling fatigued but sleep is the best thing you
can do for your body. Get a full night’s sleep each night and take short
periods of rest - or naps - throughout the day if you need it. Listen to your
body.
