Fatigue
FATIGUE is defined as a progressive disease in the capacity to do physical work. Fatigue is a complex sensation with psychological and physical components.
Fatigue is often reported as the most common symptom that individuals with cancer experience. As a person with cancer, you know best how fatigue feels, as well as fatigue's impact on your day to day life.
Fatigue that is not relieved by enough sleep, good nutrition, or a low-stress environment should be evaluated by your doctor. Because fatigue is a common complaint, sometimes a potentially serious cause may be overlooked.
Causes
1. Starvation, rigid dietary restrictions, obesity, crash diets, lack of rest, lack of exercise and fresh air, excessive smoking and drinking, late nights.
2. Hormonal imbalance.
3. Anemia, hypoglycemia, low BP.
4. Diseases of the brain, heart and respiratory system.
Fatigue can also be caused by a wide range of illnesses and diseases. In such cases, a person usually finds they suddenly (or even gradually) need more rest and sleep. This may affect their performance at work.
Clinical Features
1. Severe weakness, washed out, feels drained out.
2. Do not feel like getting out of bed.
3. Lethargy, tiredness, exhaustion.
Management
1. Immediately consult a doctor.
2. Start eating the right foods at the right time. (see Diet and
3. Take stock of your smoking and drinking habits.
4. Avoid late nights. Make it early to bed and early to rise.
5. Exercise early morning.
6. Drink enough water.
Here are some tips for reducing fatigue:
- Get adequate, regular, and consistent amounts of sleep each night.
- Eat a healthy , well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Exercise regularly.
- Learn better ways to relax. Try yoga or meditation.
- Maintain a reasonable work and personal schedule.
- Change your stressful circumstances, if possible. For example, switch jobs, take a vacation, and deal directly with problems in a relationship.
- Take a multivitamin. Talk to your doctor about what you need and what is best for you.
- Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and drug use.
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