FAQs — Fatigue

Q. Is it normal to continue to feel fatigued even after recovering from a transplant?

Yes. Research specific to transplant patients indicates that fatigue is an important quality of life issue and that it persists in many survivors for years after treatment.

Q. What can I do to manage fatigue?

Some tips to aid with fatigue management are:

Identifying any contributing medical conditions: Problems such as anemia, infection, dehydration, depression, and anxiety can cause fatigue, and effective treatment will help relieve feelings of tiredness.

Activity: Stay as active as you can. This is the most important thing you can do to manage fatigue. Regular exercise like walking several times each week can help you move through the fatigue and feel better.

Rest and sleep: Establishing an effective sleep/rest schedule, and managing symptoms that interfere with sleep. Too much bed rest can actually decrease your energy level.

Energy conservation: Recognize and manage your pattern of fatigue so that high-priority activities are carried out at the time when energy level is highest.

Take rest breaks between activities. Let others help you with activities that are tiring or not satisfying. Modify home and work environments to maximize efficient use of energy. Organize time to avoid rushing.

Nutrition: Drink plenty of liquids. Eat a well balanced diet of nutritious foods that give you energy.

Energy restoration: Take time several times each week to do something you enjoy, such as listening to music, visiting with friends, meditation, or appreciating nature.

For more information and detailed tips for managing fatigue we invite you to check out the following article on fatigue at the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship Web site.
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