New to it all

[Pokerguy]

62 yo male here; was diagnosed with CLL in November of 2018. After three sets of bloodwork, a CT and a boner marrow biopsy Im told I continue on watch and wait. My only symptom is extreme fatigue which precludes me from working 8 hours a day. I should note that I’m also a long time bariatric patient. My doctor says I should not feel as I do so I’m turning to the community for assistance. Is this fatigue something that others have experienced? Do I have any other recourse? Anyone with bariatric surgery have CLL as well?

[AussieNeil Partner Administrator]

Welcome to our community!

There are only about 1,000 posts related to fatigue in our community, so you have plenty of company: healthunlocked.com/cllsuppo...

Despite many doctors and even specialists denying the connection, CLL related fatigue is very real and is in fact one of the reasons for commencing treatment if it interferes sufficiently with daily activities. I'm glad you mentioned having bariatric surgery, because it is possible that achieving further weight reduction could greatly reduce your level of fatigue. How is your weight now? Our top poster, Chris/CLLCanada, who we sadly lost back in April, noted in his profile: "CLL Regression - 2009 to 2012 drop ALC 136K to 42K EXERCISE!!" Elsewhere in replies, he shared how this was due to him shedding a great deal of weight. He had crippling fatigue that resolved after his first treatment, but he also found exercise reduced his fatigue levels. It's thought that being overweight increases the amount of body inflammation, which in turn causes the fatigue and CLL growth.

I hope this helps, though I appreciate how very difficult it can be to lose weight and even bariatric surgery is not a permanent cure.

Neil

[Curious12]

Fatigue can be caused by any number of issues (CLL is one in a very long line of possible causes) so it may be premature to blame the CLL. I'm unsure what your exact circumstances are however, if possible, see if you can get some exercise happening (if you aren't already doing so). It may seem counter intuitive however expending energy is one of the best ways to get more energy. Given your other health complaint, it may be advisable to get professional advice on what sort of exercise you should do. If seeking professional advice isn't an option for what ever reason, then start out exercising slowly and build up gradually over a period of months. Above all, do something you enjoy.

[WinJ3]

I understand about the fatigue. My doctor said the same thing when I complained about it. What I do know is most of my fatigue went away after my treatment.