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Deal With the Tiring Effects of Chemotherapy

There are things you can do to feel less fatigued while undergoing treatment

National Institutes of Health

Chemotherapy can make you tired.

So can other things like anemia, which is a low red blood cell count.

Being depressed or in pain, taking certain medicines, or having trouble sleeping can also make you feel tired.

Make a plan to feel less tired.

Do less. Let others help you.

  •     Do activities that are most important first. 
  •     Ask others for help. 
  •     Take time off from your job, or work fewer hours.

Tell your doctor or nurse if:

  •     You are not able to do your normal activities 
  •     You are still very tired, even after resting or sleeping

Eat and drink well.

  •     Make healthy foods when you feel well. Freeze them to eat later. 
  •     Eat 5 or 6 small meals during the day to keep up your strength, instead of 3 big meals. 
  •     Most people need to drink at least 8 cups of water a day. Keep water with you and take small sips during the day.

Be as active as you can.

  •     Take a walk or ride an exercise bike every day. 
  •     Ask your doctor or nurse about other exercises that can help. Stretching, yoga, or Tai Chi help some people.

Take time to rest.

  •     Listen to your body. Rest when you feel tired. 
  •     Try to take short naps that are 1 hour or less, during the day. 
  •     Make a bedtime routine. Bathing or listening to music before you go to sleep may help you relax. 
  •     Sleep at least 8 hours every night.

Questions to ask your doctor or nurse:

  1.     What problems should I call you about? 
  2.     What medicine or treatments can help me? 
  3.     What foods and drinks are best for me? 
  4.     How much liquid should I drink each day? 
  5.     What exercises can help me feel better?

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