Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness or exhaustion. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause fatigue. Fatigue in people with cancer is sometimes called cancer-related fatigue or CRF. CRF is a very common problem.

Fatigue in people with cancer can be more severe. They may get tired more quickly after less activity and feel exhausted even if they are getting enough rest and sleep.

Fatigue affects everyone differently. It can vary throughout the day, and each day may be different. For most people, fatigue gets better after treatment finishes. But for some it may continue for months or sometimes years.

Here is a list of some symptoms you might have if you have cancer related fatigue:

• lack of energy – you may just want to stay in bed all day
• the need to rest even when you’ve done little or no activity
• feeling you just cannot be bothered to do much
• sleeping problems such as unable to sleep or disturbed sleep
• finding it hard to get up in the morning
• feeling anxious, sad or depressed
• pain in your muscles – you may find it hard to climb stairs or walk short distances
• feeling breathless after doing small tasks, for example, having a shower or making your bed
• finding it hard to concentrate, even just watching TV or talking to a friend
• finding it hard to think clearly or make decisions easily
• loss of interest in sex
• loss of interest in doing things you usually enjoy
• negative feelings about yourself and others

 Please follow the links below for support with managing fatigue

Movement Hub - Move Against Cancer

Tiredness (fatigue) and cancer | Macmillan Cancer Support

What is cancer fatigue? | Cancer Research UK

Starting exercise after cancer treatment

A 10 Minute gentle guided Pilates session