Many people find that tiredness, or fatigue, is a major challenge. Your tiredness may continue for some time after treatment has finished. Some people find it takes them up to two years to feel really well again.

Fatigue can include feeling tired, sleepy, drowsy, confused or impatient. You may also have trouble concentrating and lose your appetite. Fatigue can appear suddenly and rest may not relieve it.

Feeling tired is not only a side effect of the treatments themselves. Travelling to hospitals and clinics for treatment and appointments can also be exhausting. If you work during your treatment or if you have a home and a family to care for, you will almost certainly feel very tired.

It may help to talk with your family and friends about how you feel and discuss ways they can help you.

If you aren’t sleeping well, tell your doctor or nurse. But don’t take any pills or medications unless they say you can. Some pills and medications may react badly with your treatment.

Tips for managing tiredness:

• Plan your day so you have time to rest.
• Save your energy for the things that are most important to you.
• Take short naps or breaks.
• Eat well and drink plenty of fluids.
• Take short walks or do light exercise.
• Let other people help you.