Fatigue

Fatigue is a common problem suffered by most patients at some point on their cancer journey. It can have a huge impact on an individual’s ability to cope with simple daily tasks such as managing household chores or even getting washed and dressed. Recent research suggests that “Cancer Related Fatigue” (CRF) is the most under diagnosed and poorly managed symptom for cancer patients and alongside pain has the most profound impact of all symptoms.

The good news is that despite the effect that CRF can have on an individual, its impact can be lessened considerably if good lifestyle management techniques are used.

At Dorothy House, Fatigue Management advice can be given by the Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists. Currently advice is given either on a 1:1 basis or in a group as part of the COPE Rehabilitation Course. Shortly we will be commencing group treatment sessions as an option. If you are having difficulties coping with fatigue and would like advice on self management then your Dorothy House Nurse Specialist, GP or other Health Care Specialist who is involved in your care can refer you to Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy.

Lifestyle Management Techniques:

Think about what you have to do in a day or for the whole week ahead and try to plan as far as possible. Allow regular rest periods during the day, pacing physical activities so as not to over tire yourself. This is good energy conservation.

Consider breaking down activities into:

those that use a lot of energy (red activities)

those that use a moderate amount of energy (amber activities)

and those that use up little energy (green activities).

This “Traffic Light System”, can help plan and structure each day and minimise the impact of fatigue. Limit each day to one red activity and several lesser activities, and when possible delegate tasks to family or friends.

If you live alone then you may need to have help. You can ask your GP or Dorothy House Nurse Specialist for advice about this. Structuring the day, managing the amount and type of physical activity you do and taking regular rest periods during the day can lessen the impact of fatigue. It is important to balance rest with activity so as to maintain functional independence.

Certain items of equipment may be useful to assist in managing fatigue eg mobility aids, stair rails, small ADL equipment.

Along with all these techniques it is also important to consider good sleep management.

Contact

Chartered Society of Physiotherapy	14 Bedford Row London WC1R 4ED 020 7306 6666	Chartered Society Site home
Directgov		Occupational Therapists
Macmillan Cancer Support	89 Albert Embankment London SE1 7UQ Help line 0808 808 00 00	Coping with Fatigue

Review date: December 2011

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