Why does my fatigue continue even after I rest or sleep? Does chronic fatigue mean that my cancer has worsened? How can exercise benefit patients with fatigue? Why does my fatigue continue even after I rest or sleep? While rest may lessen fatigue associated with a medical illness, it often does not relieve it. Although patients with cancer or other chronic diseases who experience fatigue may need rest or naps during the day, they should recognize that these activities will not eliminate the problem. Excessive bed rest can promote weakness or decreased energy levels and eventually increase fatigue. Mild to moderate exercise, such as walking and stretching, can help to restore energy levels. (Whatever the solution, it is advisable to check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.) Does chronic fatigue mean that my cancer has worsened? Cancer patients experiencing fatigue may not report it to their doctors because they fear that fatigue symptoms are associated with disease recurrence or spread. However, fatigue can be related to cancer treatment, anemia, liver, kidney, or lung function, inactivity, or a variety of other causes. Treatment interventions that alleviate fatigue symptoms are available to patients, and patients should report their fatigue symptoms to their doctors. How can exercise benefit patients with fatigue? Moderate exercise has been found to relieve fatigue symptoms in both healthy people and those with chronic diseases. Light to moderate exercise, as recommended by a physician, can gently energize a patient and increase functioning. Exercise differs from casual, everyday activity in that a program of exercise is controlled therapeutic activity used to maintain energy and minimize fatigue. Need more information on fatigue? Ask a question?

Department of Pain Medicine and Palliative Care Beth Israel Medical Center, New York City ©2005 Continuum Health Partners, Inc. www.stoppain.org/palliative_care