Hi AS,
Thanks for posting. Its sounds like the last few months have been difficult for you.
Experiencing fatigue (extreme tiredness) after receiving treatment for breast cancer is very common. It doesn’t always go away with rest or sleep and may affect you physically and emotionally. Many people find that they start to get their energy levels back as time passes after treatment, but for some fatigue can continue for months or sometimes years. Cognitive impairment (brain fog or chemo brain) is also common.
You mention you finished tamoxifen in July. When you finish hormone treatment any side effects from the treatment usually improve. It sounds as though your symptoms are becoming worse rather than improving. If you have not done so already, do discuss how you are feeling with your GP. It’s important they are aware of any symptoms are experiencing and how they are affecting your daily life. They can assess you and make sure there are not any other reasons for your symptoms. There are a few situations where fatigue can be due to other conditions such as anaemia, (too few red blood cells in the body) or thyroid problems, so it’s important these are ruled out.
Other factors may also contribute to fatigue, such as low mood, altered sleep patterns; reduced activity and poor diet.
There are things you can try to help manage fatigue as discussed in the previous links. You may want to keep a diary to record when you feel most tired. This can help you plan activities you enjoy in the times when you have more energy. Trying to stay physically active can help. Eating a healthy well balanced diet is also important.
You may find our Facebook live on mindfulness and sleep deprivation helpful, if this is a problem for you. You may also be interested in the Macmillan booklet Coping with fatigue (tiredness).
We offer a range of free supportive services which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
Our number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties dial 18001 followed by our number and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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Best wishes,
Jane
Breast Care Nurse
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Wondered if worth adding ? - only as it may be possible there symptoms may be indirectly related to a recurrence as well?