December is Cancer-Related Fatigue Awareness Month
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most common and challenging side effects of cancer and its treatment, affecting 70–100% of patients. Unlike ordinary tiredness, this type of fatigue can feel overwhelming, often persisting even after rest or sleep. It can range from a physical lack of energy to emotional and mental exhaustion, making it difficult to maintain daily activities.
What Does Cancer-Related Fatigue Feel Like?
Patients describe CRF in many ways, using terms such as:
Sluggish
Exhausted
Apathetic
Faint
Unable to concentrate
Simple tasks like bathing, cooking, or shopping may feel insurmountable. Additionally, CRF is strongly linked to depression—each can exacerbate the other.
What Causes Cancer-Related Fatigue?
The causes of CRF are multifaceted, including:
Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy can lead to fatigue.
Poor Nutrition: Side effects like nausea or appetite loss may result in inadequate energy intake.
Anemia: Low red blood cell counts reduce oxygen delivery to tissues, increasing fatigue.
Medications: Pain management and anti-nausea drugs often contribute to fatigue.
Emotional and Physical Strain: Anxiety, pain, and other symptoms may heighten exhaustion.
What Can Be Done to Reduce CRF?
While CRF can be daunting, there are ways to manage and improve symptoms:
Conserve Energy
Recognize early signs of fatigue (e.g., heavy legs, tired eyes) and rest before exhaustion sets in.
Plan your day around energy highs and lows.
Delegate less essential tasks to others.
Optimize Nutrition
Eat small, frequent meals to maintain energy.
Stay hydrated with 8–10 glasses of fluid daily.
Incorporate Exercise
Physical activity can improve energy levels and reduce CRF. Low-intensity options include walking, stretching, or gardening.
Consult with your healthcare team before starting any exercise regimen to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Relaxation Techniques
Activities like meditation, listening to music, or spending time outdoors can alleviate stress and fatigue.
How Monarch Wellness Can Help
At Monarch Wellness, we understand how debilitating CRF can be. Our tailored exercise programs and support services are designed to help you regain strength, mobility, and independence. From group classes to one-on-one training, our team is here to guide you through every step of your recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you feel your best.
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