4 Ways to Handle Cancer-Related Fatigue

Whether you, a patient or client, or loved one are undergoing cancer treatment, it’s crucial that you pay attention to not just their treatment and recovery options, but also flag how well they’re managing their stress and fatigue.

Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer and its treatment, and affects between 50 -90 percent of patients, leading to insomnia, too much sleep, frequent exhaustion or weakness. Although the type and stage of cancer, treatment history, and treatments, emotional and environmental factors can significantly contribute to high and low levels of fatigue, there are plenty of ways you can lower how frequently you or a loved one experiences fatigue.

Thankfully, the most effective ways to combat fatigue don’t require medication or expensive treatments, and by trying just a few, you can make a significant impact on your loved one’s condition.

1)Seek out the help of a chiropractor

In almost all cases, fatigue stems from the pain and body aches, leading to poor sleep, and heightened stress. A chiropractor can relieve various areas bothering either yourself or your client.

2) Pay attention to nutrition!

You are what you eat, and that has never been more true, especially now as more and more studies regarding the microbiome, or collection of bacteria and the effect the gut has on your overall health, come to light. By seeing a nutritionist or dietician, you can help pinpoint deficiencies and prioritize getting a boost of vitamins and nutrients, which may be the root of your fatigue.

3) Yoga and mindfulness.

A cancer diagnosis can send many individuals down a path of increased stress, leading to poor sleep, high-stress levels, and mood swings. The benefit of holistic wellness, breathing techniques, and even talk therapy could make a huge difference.

4) Acupuncture

If you’ve never tried acupuncture before, be sure to give it a try! Some studies have shown that it can help patients manage fatigue, and often has a very calming effect on the entire body.