All of this can make living your life and enjoying the activities and people you love feel challenging. But there are strategies that can help. “The goal is to work around it, conserve energy, and utilize energy when it’s available,” says Dr. David-West.
1. Rule Out Other Factors That May Be Draining Your Energy
Things such as depression, excessive weight loss, inadequate nutrition, and poor sleep can all make fatigue worse. “Both a depressed mood and malnutrition can impact functional status and contribute to fatigue,” says Gina M. Mantia-Smaldone, MD, an associate professor of surgical oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. And fatigue can lead to feelings of depression, so it can become a tricky cycle.
Depending on the symptoms you have, consulting with specialists such as a therapist or nutritionist can be helpful, says David-West. “A focus on a high-protein, low-sugar diet that minimizes processed foods is important to avoid sugar rushes and subsequent crashes,” she says, noting that good fats provide energy stores and can help mitigate nutrition-related fatigue.
2. Plan Around Your Treatment Cycle
When going through treatment, your energy levels can fluctuate from day to day. David-West recommends observing the first cycle to understand how your body responds, noting which days are especially difficult — for example, the first week after an infusion — and which leave you with higher energy levels. “Based on this, you can carve out a personalized schedule,” she says. For instance, wherever possible, avoid scheduling social events, multiple appointments, or big commitments at work when you anticipate feeling your worst. “This proactive time management helps you navigate treatment while maintaining your quality of life,” says David-West.
3. Lean On Friends and Family
On days when fatigue is at its worst, friends and family can provide emotional support, says Dr. Mantia-Smaldone. And don’t feel bad relying on family, friends, or neighbors for practical help. Chances are, they’ll be happy to pitch in with chores, meal prep, or everyday tasks that can be a struggle for you to complete when you’re low on energy.
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