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Fatigue Health Article

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Description

Fatigue is a feeling of exhaustion or loss of strength. The duration of fatigue for a patient with cancer has been found to last from one to two times the length of time between diagnosis and completion of treatment, so it is common for fatigue to persist beyond a patient's treatment regimen.

Causes

Many people experience fatigue as a side effect of cancer treatment. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy are associated with fatigue. Scientists believe fatigue also occurs because the body is devoting so much of its energy fighting the cancer that it has little left over for daily life. Often the feelings of exhaustion are more intense immediately following a cancer treatment, but they gradually ease over time as the body gains strength.

During chemotherapy, anti-cancer drugs kill both cancer cells and healthy cells, including red blood cells. This can lead to anemia, or low red blood cell counts, which causes fatigue. Chemotherapy agents also attack white blood cells, weakening the immune system.

Medications, pain, depression, and the stress of the diagnosis and treatment are other factors that result in fatigue.

Treatments

If anemia is a problem, physicians may prescribe iron supplements or drugs, such as erythropoietin, to stimulate blood cell growth. In some cases, blood transfusions may be necessary.

Many people with cancer find that they must pace themselves, alternating periods of activity with small naps. Going to bed earlier also seems to help.

Research has shown that people who exercise experience less cancer-related fatigue. Walking or using an exercise bicycle are good choices. For those who have severe weakness, even a few minutes of gentle stretching in bed can make a difference.

Eating nutritious food is another way to get an energy boost to better fight cancer. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and plenty of protein, if nausea and vomiting are not a problem. High-calorie liquid meals can help offset severe weight loss for those who cannot tolerate solid foods. Drinking plenty of water also helps prevent diarrhea and dehydration, which add to fatigue.

Alternative and complementary therapies

Yoga has proven to be highly effective in reducing stress, thereby increasing energy and helping people to relax and sleep better.

Marijuana has been used to help ease nausea in cancer patients. Since a loss of appetite can cause weakness and fatigue, marijuana may help indirectly. Most states do not permit the use of marijuana for medical reasons. Physicians will be aware of these regulations.

Other complementary therapies, such as massage, aromatherapy, meditation, or prayer, help people with cancer relax, easing their worries and ultimately combatting fatigue.

Resources

BOOKS

Clegg, Holly B., and Gerald Miletello, MD. Eating Well Through Cancer. Baton Rouge: Holly B. Clegg Inc., 2001.

Hassett Dahm, Nancy, and Robert Schirmer. Mind, Body and Soul: A Guide to Living with Cancer. New York: Taylor Hill Publishing, 2000.

PERIODICALS

Dimeo, F. C. et al. "Effects of Physical Activity on the Fatigue and Psychologic Status of Cancer Patients During Chemotherapy." Cancer 85, no. 10 (May 15, 1999): 2273-7.

ORGANIZATIONS

American Cancer Society. 1599 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA30329. (800) ACS-2345. <http://www.cancer.org>. CancerFatigue.org. Oncology Nursing Society, 501 HolidayDr., Pittsburgh, PA 15220. (412) 921-7373. <http://www.cancerfatigue.org>.