Fatigue

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Hi, I just need some reassurance that how I feel is normal. I have got invasive ductal breast cancer and on the 25th January I had a lumpectomy and a  sentinel node biopsy.  I am really struggling with fatigue and I did not expect to feel this way. I'm such a fit person normally so I'm finding it hard to accept. I've become anxious thinking it's cancer making me fatigued or whether this is a normal part of recovery? 

  • It is a normal part of recovery if you’ve had a general anaesthetic for any op - but all the more so when there’s all the added stress and fear cancer brings to the equation.   That said, it might be worth talking to your GP.  When I got really tired during chemo mine ran different bloods to check that nothing was being masked by the side effects of chemo - but it was just the treatment.  Be really kind to yourself - you are a fit person currently having treatment - continue to think of yourself that way.  It should hopefully only be temporary.   Watch how much you are going with the affected arm - mobility is more important than strength at this stage and over use can make you very tired quickly - you could also ask for some physio through the GP - I had a few sessions which really helped me learn to pace myself and understand what was enough for that stage of recovery and how to build strength.  Take care. 

  • Thank you. I've got a follow up appointment tomorrow to get my pathology results and discuss further treatment. I'll mention to my oncologist about my fatigue. I do think I'm expecting miracles and if I'm honest I'm probably doing too much. I've not been offered blood tests but think this will put my mind at ease if I do. I just want to rule out the fatigue isn't due to anything else. I hope you are also recovering well.x

  • I think it is quite normal to feel fatigue after what you have gone through. A cancer diagnosis is like a bombshell. On top of that you have had surgery and the anaesthetic can play havoc with your system.  I had the same procedure as you and I was surprised how tired I was. You just have to take it slowly but I know from personal experience how frustrating that can be. I am on Anestrozole and I am certain that is affecting my current energy levels. 

  • Thanks for your reply. I do think I'm being too hard on myself.  I think maybe the stress of waiting for pathology results are also impacting on energy levels. I hope your recovery is going well.x

  • Totally agree with all the responses and I will add the emotional drain which can cause fatigue too. Cancer is a drain on our energy both physically and emotionally.  Labs are a good idea as your mind will be at ease. 
    Take care and hope you get your mojo back.

    Barbara

    Barbara 

  • Thank you so much. Its nice to have some reassurance.. I wish you all the best.x

  • My recovery is going very well. I finished radiotherapy in November so just on Hormone Therapy now. It doesn’t stop you stressing though everytime you get a pain or ache, think this will be the new normal.