Managing Fatigue

At the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, patients and their families are at the heart of everything we do. Talk to one of our dedicated healthcare professionals about managing symptoms that may be caused by cancer or your treatment.

Fatigue

Fatigue is the most common symptom experienced by cancer patients and is best described as feeling tired. Fatigue can be caused by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, emotional distress, pain, nausea, anemia and other side effects from treatment or cancer. 

Fatigue can be mild, preventing you from doing strenuous activities. Or it can be severe enough to interfere with your day-to-day activities. It is important to know what your limits are and to plan ahead as much as possible. Your friends, family and caregivers can help, but the greatest impact can be made by finding ways to cope with fatigue.

If you are concerned that you or a family member are not coping well with fatigue, we encourage you to speak with a member of your healthcare team who can help you make appropriate choices about your care. We will also assist you and your family access resources in your community and coordinate care where necessary.

Additional Resources

Materials about managing fatigue - both during and after cancer treatment - are available in the resource centre at the Saskatoon Cancer Centre. More information is also available through the links below:

Cancer and Fatigue Video Series

People with cancer often have fatigue. It is the most common symptom. It is not like normal fatigue. Cancer-related fatigue does not get better with rest or sleep. There are things that can help cancer-related fatigue. These videos will give you helpful tips to live well despite having cancer-related fatigue. This video series was created by patients and cancer experts.