Fatigue

FormerMember
FormerMember
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Hi, I Had Breast Surgery December 2019  Then Radiotherapy which Was Completed On March 2020, I’m Still In Sickness Leave, Is It Normal To Be So Tired On A Daily Basis , Joint Pain Loss Of Concentration And The Flushes Are Unbelievably Unbearable resulting In Lack Of Sleep, Just Recently Put On Medication For Flushes So Fingers Crossed, My Question , Is These Symptoms Normal !!! Plz and thank you Blush 

  • Hi , sadly for some the answer is YES these are normal symptoms especially if you have been put on a hormone medication? Like Tamoxifen or Letrozole? 

    I for one had EVERYTHING as you described it. In fact it took me a very long time to find something that helped ease the side effects of Tamoxifen and then Zoladex. I like to think I am one of the unlucky ones and that most people don't feel like this. However now and again someone like you pops up with the same issues! 

    Not sure how old you are. I was put into enforced menopause at 39 and my body fought it all the way! In fact even 7 years on I am struggling with flushes, although acupuncture is helping with that, I also tried an antidepressant and a magnet at one point, both of which worked for a short time! 

    The Fatigue continues to be something I have to deal with on a daily basis. Some days better than others. However I think learning to listen to your body helps. If you need an afternoon nap then have one, if you don't have the energy to do the housework then leave it for another day! 

    Physically your body has been through alot but don't forget it's been mentally tough too and this is when you start to process  what just happened to you! Its exhausting work trying to process lots of thoughts and fears! So please be kind to yourself.

    I hope this helps you to at least realise you are not alone. We are all here to help and listen. Take Care. Sal xx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to LondonLass

    Thank You So Very much for Reply, I’ll Be 59 in October, I Know Myself I Wouldn’t Be Fit To Return To Work Full Time I Think I’d Struggle Even Part Time, I just Get So Tired Doing Normal Day To Day Things , With The Flushes Comes Palpitations , Medication Given By Oncology Doesn’t Seem To Be Helping , And The Joint Pain Is Horrible, Frightened If Put Of Sicknesses Benefit I’ll Not Be Able To Manage !!!!

  • Hi , unfortunately I think the fatigue is normal for some of us, I initially thought it was post radiotherapy effects but as it carried on I assume it’s from the Anastrozole. I’m on it for at least 5 years, possibly several more beyond, so have accepted that’s how I’m going to feel for the foreseeable future. Are you taking hormone inhibitors? I’ve had blood tests to check for other causes but all were normal. I’m a bit older than you (61) and have been lucky to be able to retire. It wasn’t an easy decision but I was struggling even with part time hours. Physically, once I’m up and get going I am fine to do lots of walking, in fact I find that helps and really it’s been my sanity saver! For me the mental fatigue is the most debilitating rather than the physical. I can cope with doing everyday stuff at my own pace, but got to the point where I just couldn’t cope with work at all. 
    Sorry you’re having these struggles, I hope you can sort out what to do about work. It might be worth speaking to the Macmillan work advisers? I wish I could say that the fatigue gets better but it hasn’t for me. I hope it’s some consolation knowing that you’re not alone! 
    Love and a big virtual hug, HFxx

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • FormerMember
    FormerMember in reply to HappyFeet1

    Thank You So Very much and A Massive Hug Back , With Covid Restrictions It Has Been Difficult, Follow Up Appointments And Speaking With Someone One To One , The Consultant @ Oncology Prescribed Clonidine I’m Taking Them From August, TBH I Thought They Would Help But I’m Feeling No improvement @ All , Totally Agree The Mental Side Is Also There I Love Gardening And It Has Been A Lifesaver , Hopefully I Will Get Speaking To Someone On A One To One Soon Hugs Hugging