Will my extreme fatigue ever lift?
I think most of us here have pondered this question before. Without knowing you or your diagnosis, I will say that it can and likely will get better. But that being said, learning to manage fatigue is a great lesson to learn. This article https://blood-cancer.com/living/fatigue-tips, has some great tips. And there are countless other articles you can search for if/when you need some new ideas. I personally found it useful to keep a journal to compare to previous days, but I know writing and even thinking are not always easy when fatigued. I always committed to only one activity a day. I would push myself to do that one thing, no matter how small. And eventually, it got easier most days to do more. And I always still give myself one day a week where absolutely nothing is expected of me. I'm sure you'll get more answers to this question, but I hope this helps! Please be easy on yourself and celebrate every small victory. We're with you!!
Angie (Team Member)For me, fatigue is the worst with bone pain a strong second. Have been at this for 3.5 years now since my first bone marrow test back in January of 2021. Was diagnosed with CMML and did 6 months of chemo which did nothing for me except make me sick and created a lot of pain. After this timeframe, I transferred my cancer care to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL. in July of 2021 Currently meeting with my Oncologist every 4 months to review blood tests. I am always asked about the fatigue & pain but there really is not much that can be done about it. For me, it is getting worse every passing month. After each of my chemo sessions I fell asleep for a half hour. Today my naps are close to 2 hours and I sleep all night long. My daily 5 mile walks are now down to three miles. My yard and house work which I used to do all day long are now down to two hours. Blood cancer hits each of us in different ways but from all that I read fatigue is common to us all.
It sounds like you are adjusting and are making the most of your abilities, despite the changes SJDIII. That bone pain is just something no one can understand until they experience it. I remember reading a note from one of my oncology visits when I reported bone pain. The nurse had listed it as joint pain and then gave me the funniest look when I said joint pain and bone pain are not the same thing.
your last sentence is so right on! Your acceptance of where you are is so inspiring. Hoping that a treatment that works for you can be found. Thanks for inspiring us with your share, and please keep us updated on how things are going.
Angie (Team Member)
Yes, fatigue is the common denominator that has been experienced by many in the community. I can tell you someone in remission of multiple myeloma and post-treatment... the fatigue is still a lingering thing. I would say just do as you're doing, which is do what you can even if it's in small spurts throughout the day or week. I use exercise as it helps give me a buzz of energy. You learn to follow and listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Wishing you the very best!
Yolanda (Team Member)
