Managing Fatigue During Breast Cancer Treatment: Tips for Conserving Energy
- Surviving Breast Cancer
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Breast cancer treatment is a physical, emotional, and mental challenge. Facing cancer and its side effects demands extraordinary physical, emotional, and spiritual stamina.
One of the most common side effects is the overwhelming fatigue that can accompany not only cancer but also many treatments, like chemotherapy. This fatigue is more than just feeling tired after a long day; it’s a deep exhaustion that rest alone doesn’t always fix. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone.
Managing fatigue is crucial, not only for your body but also for your overall well-being and recovery. Continue reading to learn why this fatigue occurs, everyday tips to help you conserve energy, and how to work closely with your healthcare team to feel more like yourself again.
Why Does Fatigue Occur During Breast Cancer Treatment?
Fatigue during breast cancer treatment can stem from various causes, including:
Cancer-related biological changes: Some types of breast cancer affect hormones like estrogen and progesterone that influence energy levels and can put an energy-intensive strain on your immune and other systems.
Nutritional deficiencies: A loss of appetite or dietary restrictions can lead to low energy levels. (Check out SBC’s resources on managing nutrition through treatment.)
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy: These treatments can cause anemia and inflammation, leading to exhaustion.
Medications: Drugs used during treatment, such as pain relievers and anti-nausea medications, may cause drowsiness.
Emotional stress: Anxiety and depression associated with cancer can also contribute to fatigue.
Sleep disturbances: Pain, stress, or treatment effects can interfere with sleep.
What Does Cancer-Related Fatigue Feel Like?
Cancer-related fatigue differs from everyday tiredness. It is a persistent, overwhelming sense of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion not relieved by rest or sleep. Unlike typical tiredness, this type of fatigue can significantly impact a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Cancer-related fatigue often affects quality of life, making it difficult for individuals to concentrate, engage in social activities, or maintain a sense of well-being.
7 Practical Tips to Conserve Energy During Treatment
1. Prioritize Your Energy
Focus on the activities that matter most to you. Make a list of daily tasks and rank them by importance. Delegate less critical tasks to family and friends.
Tip: Try using a planner to schedule activities when you feel most energetic.
2. Practice the “4 Ps” of Energy Conservation
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends these techniques for managing cancer-related fatigue. The four Ps — plan, prioritize, pace, and position — can help you manage daily activities without overexerting yourself.
Plan: Combine errands and rest between activities.
Prioritize: Focus on must-do tasks.
Pace: Don’t rush. Break tasks into manageable steps.
Position: Sit while doing chores like cooking or brushing your teeth.
3. Stay Physically Active (But Gently)
While it might seem counterintuitive, light exercise can help combat fatigue. Activities like short walks, gentle yoga, or stretching can boost energy levels. Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise routine. Check out SBC’s upcoming yoga and Pilates classes on our event calendar, or check out our On-Demand library for recordings!
4. Optimize Your Sleep Routine
A good night’s sleep can make a significant difference. Try these sleep-friendly habits:
Keep a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule.
Create a calming bedtime routine — read a book, take a warm bath, or practice meditation.
Avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bed.
5. Eat Nutritious Foods
Eating balanced meals fuels your body. Focus on:
High-protein foods like eggs, nuts, and beans
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Whole grains
A registered dietitian can help you develop a meal plan that supports your energy levels during treatment.
6. Manage Stress and Emotions
Emotional exhaustion can worsen fatigue. Try:
Mindfulness or meditation to calm your mind
Counseling or support groups — talking to others who understand can help. Join SBC for Thursday Night Thrivers, our weekly virtual support group with special meetups for metastatic breast cancer, early-stage breast cancer, inflammatory breast cancer, and a Spanish-language group!
7. Communicate With Your Healthcare Team
Persistent fatigue should never be ignored. Discuss these questions with your care team:
Could my fatigue be related to anemia or thyroid issues?
Could my medications be adjusted to relieve my fatigue?
Would physical or occupational therapy help me with my fatigue?
Your care team can tailor treatments to manage your fatigue better.
Sudden or severe fatigue can sometimes indicate a medical emergency. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or confusion
Rapid heartbeat
Difficulty staying awake
These could signal complications like infection or heart issues requiring additional care, so be sure to reach out if you notice sudden changes.
Count On Us for Information, Resources, and Support
Managing fatigue during breast cancer treatment is about balance — knowing when to rest, how to conserve energy, and when to ask for help. Every person’s experience is unique, so be kind to yourself and adjust your routines as needed.
Remember, you’re not alone. Rely on your healthcare team, loved ones, and support networks to help you through this time.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed with breast cancer, are navigating survivorship, or are the loved one of someone experiencing breast cancer, you can count on SurvivingBreastCancer.org to keep you informed. We provide educational information to help you better understand symptoms, testing, treatment options, surgery, etc., and podcasts that feature professionals, advocates, and caregivers who share valuable information.
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Note: This article offers general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Make sure to discuss your options with your healthcare provider.
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