Fatigue after cervical cancer 2019

[Ephe]

Hey,I've been really struggling to manage my fatigue post treatment (radical hysterectomy, brachy, radio, chemo). Even though my treatment finished 3 years ago, fatigue is an ongoing issue.

I've handed this over to my healthcare team, who are sympathetic, but are limited I in what they can offer.

I did have fatigue before my cancer, so I am used to it to some extent. Nevertheless, this is worse - it's a little like having a permanent head cold.

Aside from the fatigue, I'm generally well. No other late side effects.

Can anybody relate to this in some way?

[Bluegenie]

Hi Ephe. I can certainly relate, as I suffered from fatigue for many years after my treatment. I'm now 18 years out and it's rarely an issue any more. I pray it won't take so long to go away in your case.

[Ephe in reply to Bluegenie]

Thank you, Bluegenie. I'm very glad to hear that you are not struggling with fatigue (to the same extent) anymore.

[NJ85]

hello, yes I’m 4 years post treatment for cervical and fatigue is a daily battle for me. I work 4 days could not manage 5!

I’ve recently had blood tests and was very low in vit D it might be worth asking for bloods.

if I have a lot on i need to plan rest days. Fatigue does dictate my life unfortunately.

You’re not alone, don’t be hard on yourself and try to over do it

[Ephe in reply to NJ85]

I have had blood tests a few times now - all of which come back normal. Although, the last batch - requested via the gynae con' - got lost in transit! Those bloods were for my hormone levels, so I'm wondering if a change to my HRT may help. Thank you so much for your reply. Only just found this site and it's so nice to have found a group with similar experiences.

[Harvit in reply to Ephe]

I upped my estogen and testosterone and it helped. Also was tested for hypothyroidism which I have as well as low b12.

[DarceyD]

Yes I am 21 years post cervical with similar treatment. As a single mum at the time of my treatment it was years before I could manage full time work. As I approach retirement I can see the cost in my pension but at least I am here to moan about it. Be kind to yourself and you have to listen to your body. I ended up with a rule of ‘one thing per day’ which helped hold fatigue at bay. So a trip to park with kids didn’t mean we could go on to do the weekly shop. It is a easier now but it comes back like an old friend with any cold symptoms.

[Bluegenie in reply to DarceyD]

Reminds me of this 😂

Do a thing meme

[Ephe in reply to DarceyD]

I changed careers because of this. My new job is a sit-down, work from home, job. Nevertheless, 5 days a week is still tough going. It's frustrating. I'm still struggling to pace myself. It's so easy to over-do it!

[Perido]

Hi Ephe

I completed treatment (RH + chemo-radio) for cc in 2017 and have struggled with fatigue ever since. I can very much relate to DarcyD's comment 'one thing a day'.

It's worth getting blood tests to rule out vitamins D and B12 deficiency plus thyroid issues, diabetes etc.

I developed lymphoedema 😪shortly after my treatment finished and I think this contributes to my fatigue. Even if you don't have obvious symptoms of lymphoedema it's possible your treatment has caused some disruption to your lymphatic system; I believe any lymphatic sluggishness can result in fatigue.

I would suggest trying self lymphatic drainage (SLD) massage; Kelly Sturm (Reed) has a series of good videos on youtube. Other ways to stimulate/support the lymphatic system include regular exercise (walking and swimming are good), maintaining a healthy body weight and keeping well hydrated (limit caffeine and alcohol).

[Ephe in reply to Perido]

That's really interesting. I never knew lymphoedema could cause sluggishness, too. I always throught is was just limited to swelling. Luckily, my lymphoedema isn't too disruptive, but I am going to investigate the link it has to fatigue...

[Ephe in reply to Perido]

Unfortuantely, I can't give up coffee. I know it's a cliche, but caffine is a lifeline!

[DarceyD in reply to Ephe]

decaf is a lot better now though. But i do miss it

[DarceyD in reply to Perido]

i agree I think lymph has lot to do with fatigue. I more or less gave up alcohol and still find one glass of wine is enough or I will pay!

[jude-the-obscure Community Pioneer]

I have suffered from intense fatigue on and off since my surgery, Radiotherapy and Chemo in 2010/11. The radiotherapy itself is a cause of fatigue initially - the body is struggling to repair all the tissue damage it causes. The trauma of all those interventive treatments has a profound psychological effect too. The advice to be kind to yourself is well placed. I was already retired when I had my treatment (aged 67). I did quite a lot of voluntary work but was able to take days off when necessary.

Hope that the New year brings a newfound energy. Take care of yourself!

Jude

[Ephe]

What a shame that fatigue is so chronically overlooked by healthcare prof'. It seems ever so common - looking through prev posts it's crops up regulalry.

[Harvit]

Are you on HRT as this helped my fatigue a vast amount. Testosterone especially. I'm 3 years out of Cervical cancer 3c1 with chemorads and branchy therapy.

[Cervicalsurvivor]

I have just been to see my gp had my b12 bloods done please get yours done also ferritin vitamin D and foliate these all will check and if low could be a cause for fatigue Let me know

Sharon