Fatigue

Fatigue, or extreme tiredness, can be one of the most common and distressing side effects of breast cancer treatment.

It can last anywhere from 3 to 12 months, or longer, after active treatment (eg surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy) has finished. Women describe it as an almost total lack of energy or feeling extremely tired all the time.

What causes fatigue?

It is not clear what causes fatigue after breast cancer treatment, but experts believe it could be a result of some of the following:

  • a side effect of chemotherapy or radiotherapy
  • coping with pain
  • anaemia (lack of red blood cells)
  • depression or anxiety
  • travelling for treatment
  • sleep difficulties

How can I manage my fatigue?

A normal reaction to feeling tired is to rest. However, research shows that long periods in bed can increase fatigue rather than make you feel more rested.

Some ways to help manage fatigue include:

  • incorporating some exercise, such as walking, into your day -- exercise, especially early in the day, has been shown to greatly assist in reducing fatigue
  • eating a healthy diet
  • organising some practical help at home, eg help with childcare, housework or making meals
  • allowing your body time to recover after treatment -- build up to your usual level of daily activity rather than stepping straight back into old routines

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