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Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects

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  • Posted: 11/24/2008

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"I was so tired. It was hard to do even simple things. My nurse said to stay as active as I could. I found that taking short walks each morning gave me more energy during the day."

Order this publication: Fatigue

Get information about: More chemotherapy side effects

Fatigue (Feeling Weak and Very Tired)

To order free copies of this fact sheet, please call 1-800-422-6237 (1-800-4-CANCER).

Why do I feel so tired?

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.

  • Try to exercise every day. Even 15 to 30 minutes a day can help give you energy.
  • 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?
 
Free Services to Learn More
National Cancer Institute
Cancer Information Service
Phone:1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
TTY:1-800-332-8615
Chat Online:www.cancer.gov/help

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