29 Jan WAYS TO FIGHT CANCER FATIGUE
The battle against cancer is a long and challenging one, requiring patients to summon a great deal of strength to continue pushing forward through every treatment session and doctor appointment. Cancer patients are never alone through their fight, since they have a wealth of support by their side including their family, friends, and a team of cancer care professionals here at Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center. Together, supporters can help cancer patients find the strength they need or even make some parts of treatment easier.
Between cancer’s effect on the body and the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy, fatigue is something that many cancer patients will face. To support you in your battle against cancer, our staff has put together this guide on how to fight this fatigue, allowing you to stay ahead of your condition and help you manage symptoms or take preventative action. Here are some ways you can reduce cancer fatigue.
GET JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT OF REST
When you’re feeling tired, it’s your body’s way of telling you that it needs to rest, repair itself, and recharge its energy to take on the next set of challenges that come your way. It is encouraged that when cancer patients feel fatigued, they do let themselves rest with short 30 minute naps and a full 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Cancer symptoms and treatment side effects can make it more difficult for patients to fall asleep, so it is recommended that cancer patients avoid habits that could make sleeping even more difficult. For example, oversleeping can bring energy levels lower, and drinking caffeine is just another thing that could prevent you from falling asleep when you need to.
EATING THE RIGHT KINDS OF FOODS
Meals that provide your body with all the essential nutrients to stay strong are crucial if you want to feel strong and energized when going into treatment. Drinking a lot of water or juices will help you stay hydrated, and several servings of fruits and vegetables each day will replenish the vitamins and minerals you may have lost during treatment. Also, protein from things like meat or fish is great for helping your body rebuild itself in between treatment appointments. If you suffer from loss of appetite due to your cancer condition, reach out to us to talk to a member of our staff and they will be able to offer suggestions to help guide you.
FRIENDS & FAMILY
If you’re feeling fatigued, remember that you don’t have to do everything yourself. You have your friends, family, and a team of cancer care professionals that are ready and willing to help you as soon as you ask. From small tasks like helping you get out of bed or getting you a drink, to big tasks like running your errands, being able to let others take care of certain things can allow you to focus on preserving your strength for your treatment sessions.
REDUCE STRESS FACTORS
Whether you just got your diagnosis and are waiting to start treatment, or if you are already attending regular treatment sessions, cancer can be a stressful experience. All of that stress can end up taking a toll on you both mentally and physically, so to avoid becoming burnt out in the middle of your cancer treatment, do your best to rid yourself of as much stress as possible. If you’re worried about what treatment will be like or what kind of side effects you might see, talk to your caretakers and doctors and ask them any questions that come to your mind. They will be able to provide you with information that can help relieve your fears. Cancer support groups are also a great resource since they allow you to share your experience and your feelings with those who have gone through or are currently going through a similar situation. Even something as simple as spending time with your loved ones can be enough to take your mind off of your condition and treatment for a short while, which can help alleviate a great deal of stress.
CONTACT US FOR MORE HELPFUL INFORMATION!
If you’re struggling with cancer fatigue and are wondering how you can find the energy you need for treatment, or if you have any questions about the methods of fighting cancer fatigue, contact us at Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center today. Our cancer care experts have worked with countless patients to help them in their battle against cancer, so we can provide you with invaluable information that can support you through your own battle too. We look forward to hearing from you!