Fatigue deserves separate mention because it is so often misunderstood as ordinary tiredness. It is more severe, not the result of recent physical or mental activity, and generally doesn’t get better with rest or sleep. It can be ongoing and affect what you can do.
Contributing factors include the cancer itself, the treatment, changes in diet, other side effects, stress, and reduced physical activity. Most people will start to feel better 6 to 12 months after treatment ends, but some may find the fatigue continues for longer than that.
Your treating team is trained to assess your situation and help you manage fatigue. It is worth reporting rather than absorbing.
Who to talk to about these symptoms
Your treating team coordinates this: the medical or radiation oncologist and cancer nurses, alongside your GP. Depending on what is needed, the team may extend to dietitians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers and specialist palliative care.
Palliative care is frequently involved in symptom care well before any end-of-life stage, and can begin at any time from diagnosis of a serious illness. It is not restricted to people who are dying.
Symptoms are easier to manage when reported early. Many people delay mentioning them, either to avoid seeming to complain or through concern that treatment might be changed. Cancer Council’s information and support line is 13 11 20.
What is done about a symptom, and by whom, is a conversation with your treating team. This page does not describe treatment, and it is not a substitute for that conversation.
