Long term tiredness following Chemo / Radio / Surgery - general question

Hi Andy 

Ivamn 2 years post radiotherapy for tonsil cancer. Have you had regular thyroid blood tests? It’s common in head and neck patients to develop thyroid issues. I have had 3 blood tests so far all come back within normal parameters. I do know of at least 3 others who were treated same time as me which are now taking thyroxine. Each of them were experiencing late onset fatigue issues. Maybe worth a try ? I do get tired but for me a 20 min lie doen sorts me out 

good luck Hazel 

Hi Hazel - thanks for the tip.

I have not had specific thyroid blood tests (although I have had plenty of blood tests so maybe that was covered..) I do have slightly low WBC counts (lymphopenia)  but nothing too low....

I'll check back about the results of thyroid tests and whether they were actually done as part of the bloods.

Thanks again

Getting your thyroid checked would also be my first suggestion. I developed an underactive thyroid a few months after I finshed treatment for which I take Levothyroxin but it can develop years afterwards.

I would also say that I do still suffer with tiredness/lack of energy etc which is something I know several people have also said (I'm 2 years post treatment).   It's also not unusual to suffer some cognitive issues as a long term effect of treatment which can manifest itself as lack of focus.

If you are diagnosed with hypothyroidism the medication may well help with some of your issues but I'm afraid I can't offer any other tips.  It seems to me you're already getting plenty of exercise and fresh air which is great for your physical and mental wellbeing.  Like Hazel, when the tiredness comes on I take a break and rest up.

Good luck  Andy.

Linda x

HimAndy I know in each of my bloods they were thyroid specific ,nitbthe general bloods that drs tend to do so definitely worth checking from memory it’s T.S.H and T4 blood test .

Hazel x

Hello Andy. The others have things covered. Other signs of low thyroid are gaining weight and feeling the cold. Have you got an any of those symptoms? Are you in Egham? (probably stupid question) I used to work at the Vets there.......many many moons ago.