Chemotherapy fatigue occur due to the intensive drug treatment, pain, lack of sleep, loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, anxiety and many other reasons, which are obvious for most cancer patients. Fatigue is a condition of mind and the most common side effect of chemotherapy. Getting relief from chemotherapy side effects  is a bit diffuclt. However, it can be effectively managed.

Fatigue can influence the cancer treatment negatively by reducing fulfillment, loss of motivation, impaired nutrition and dietary intake, inactivity, etc. Hence, managing fatigue is of prime importance and there are many options to manage it. Usually managing side effects of chemotherapy becomes tough but the side effect like chemotherapy fatigue can be managed.

Fatigue occur due to chemotherapy, its side effects, or any other therapies that are combined with chemotherapy like surgery, radiation, etc. Recovering post surgery or the period immediately after radiation therapy could be extremely exhausting. Certain side effects of chemotherapy like anemia also cause fatigue. Painkillers and antidepressants also cause fatigue. A side effect like a lowered white cells count makes the patient susceptible to infections, which also leads to fatigue.

Treating fatigue not only improves the overall health and quality of life of the patient but also makes the treatment more effective as the motivation and energy levels go up. It helps psychologically, emotionally and physically.

If fatigue is reduced, the vital organs like kidneys and the liver function well. It also improves blood circulation and the levels of oxygen in the blood.

Some important factors in managing fatigue are-

• Enough sleep and rest
• Balanced diet
• Exercise
• Recreational activities
• Talking to family members
• Accepting a slower and a laid-back lifestyle
• Task management or taking help from family members to do some of your chores
• Mental acceptance of the ground reality
• Overall hygiene
• Alternative therapies and supplementary medicines after consulting your doctor

Plan your day in such a way that you get time to do your favorite activities likewatching TV and reading books, etc and have enough time to rest in the day. It is good to take short naps rather than to sleep for a few hours. Cut down on your normal number of activities. For e.g. cook meal in smaller portions, take a break then read a book for some time, talk to a family member for sometime, etc. You need to do it according to your individual preferences ensuring that you are active as well as you get enough rest.

Take short walks nearby your house or in the garden or do a light exercise at home. It is good if you can exercise for sometime in the morning as it gives you more energy throughout the day. Save your energy for important chores by taking a break in between. Do not exhaust yourself too much. Accept the fact that you would have a little laid-back lifestyle than what you previously had. Do not hesitate to take help from family members.

Get into activities like meditation, yoga, prayer, etc, whatever suits as per your belief system. These activities definitely help you to calm your mind and focus on your treatment. They give you relief from depression and anxiety.

If you have a condition like anemia for instance, talk to your doctor about taking supplementary medicines.
Eat a balanced diet. Take in enough low GI carbohydrate especially in case of weakness or loss of weight. Drink plenty of water, fresh fruit juices, etc. Basically, keep yourself hydrated. Talk to a dietitian about the diet that would suit your condition.
It is necessary to refrain from too much of caffeine, aerated drinks, and alcohol.

Join a support group or try talking to other cancer patients.
You can write a diary about your daily schedule, your feelings, your daily diet, etc
Chemotherapy fatigue can cause a lot of distress to the patient. It is important to talk to your doctor regarding supplementary medicines, exercise, and other alternative therapies. Support from family members or close friends could be a great relief.