| "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path - and leave a trail." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~ |
| SIDE EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY Fatigue |
| ORPHANS OF THE CANCER STORM |
Fatigue and general weakness are almost universal side effects of many cancer treatments, Although slightly different in nature they are caused by the same things and are effectively treated the same way. Chemotherapy will force your child's body to work flat out as it repairs treatment-damaged tissues, and eradicates dead or dying cancer cells. This will create an overall feeling of weariness. Other causes of fatigue include: Some chemotherapy drugs, anti-nausea drugs and pain medication. Malnutrition, mineral imbalance or deficiency caused by diarrhoea, excessive sweating, vomiting or loss of appetite. Infection or anaemia. Emotional distress such as anxiety, fear, depression, and disturbed sleep. This is a surprisingly common belief. However, this is not the case at all. Whilst fatigue is a possible symptom of cancer itself, when experienced during treatment, it is almost certainly caused by one of the above factors. Fatigue is not an absolutely predictable side effect. Your child may complete her course of chemotherapy without being troubled by fatigue at all. All children are individual, as are their responses to cancer treatment. Experiences range from constant and debilitating to intermittent, minor bouts. Your child needs plenty of rest. Ensure that naps, rest times and quiet activities are made available throughout the day to replenish your child‘s energy levels. Visitors can be an excellent boost for you and your child. However, they can also be extremely exhausting. Ask friends to first confirm by telephone that a visit is ok, and If fatigue is an issue for your child, suggest an alternative time and politely explain that she needs to rest. It is important that your child is able to let you know when she is tiring from visits and activity. An agreed signal will enable her to communicate this with you. Use a simple signal such as tugging the ear, hugging the knees or asking for a specific drink. Give your child some control over planned activities by helping her to prioritise her goals for the day. If you are uncertain of her energy levels, take a wheelchair or buggy so that she does not have to be constantly on her feet when outside. Let your child participate in her regular activities whenever she is able. If she is unable to actively participate due to fatigue, allow her to attend events to share in the socialising, so that she may continue to feel involved. Provide well balanced meals and regular small snacks, but don't force them, or expect them to be eaten, as treatment can affect appetite and taste. Try to avoid unnecessary physical or emotional stress as this will sap energy and mental coping resources Support groups, both those for parents and for children or teens, can be a wonderful source of emotional strength. Sharing experiences and feelings can help restore hope and the reduce the sense of loneliness associated with cancer, thus decreasing stress levels which may exacerbate fatigue. Go back to CHEMOTHERAPY SIDE EFFECTS index. Go back to GENERAL TREATMENT index. Go back to ORbIT TREATMENT index. Go back to SONGS TREATMENT index. |
| Disclaimer This information page has been prepared by an individual who does not have medical training. However its contents have been reviewed by appropriately qualified medical professionals for accuracy and quality. This page is intended for information purposes only and should not be used as a guide to diagnosis or treatment. If this information raises any concerns about your child’s condition or care protocol, discuss them with his or her paediatrician, oncologist, or other appropriate medical professional who has knowledge of the case. |
| What causes fatigue? Is fatigue a sign that the treatment is not working? Is my child likely to suffer from fatigue during chemotherapy? What can I do to reduce the impact of fatigue? |