Fatigue is commonly experienced with cancer, including metastatic breast cancer. It can develop for multiple reasons. The cancer itself can cause fatigue, or it can be a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy.
This kind of fatigue is more than regular tiredness. It’s an overwhelming exhaustion that doesn’t always improve with rest. Fatigue can make daily tasks feel harder, impact relationships, and reduce your quality of life.Strategies to manage fatigue include pacing yourself, eating better, and practicing relaxation techniques.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fatigue-GettyImages-1290106367-d0627aa648c94158a1519bc6484ba5e4.jpg "9 Ways to Manage Fatigue When Living With Metastatic Breast Cancer (1)")
1. Delegate Tasks and Focus on Important Activities First
When you’re living with metastatic breast cancer, it’s important to conserve your energy for what matters most to you. One way to do this is by delegating tasks to others. If someone offers to help, let them. Ask family members to run errands, cook meals, or handle chores around the house.
Another helpful tip is to focus on your most important activities first. Make a list of what needs to be done and prioritize the tasks that matter to you.
For example, if spending time with your family or friends is a priority, save energy for that instead of less important tasks. It’s OK to say no to things you don’t feel you have the energy to do.
2. Plan Short Rest Breaks
While staying as active as possible and maintaining a routine are important, allow yourself to take rest breaks of up to 30 minutes throughout the day. Create a schedule that includes rest periods, such as a 20- to-30-minute break after meals or before starting a new activity.
This can prevent you from feeling completely drained. Listening to your body and resting when needed can help you better manage fatigue. However, balance rest with activity, as too much rest or long naps during the day can affect sleep at night.
3. Maintain a Healthy Diet
What you eat can impact how much energy you have. A healthy diet can help your body stay well during cancer treatment. Focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods provide nutrients that can boost your energy levels.
Side effects from the cancer or the cancer treatment, such as nausea, diarrhea, or mouth sores, can make it difficult to eat well. If you’re experiencing symptoms like these, talk to your healthcare team for guidance on managing them so that you can focus on eating better. If eating is difficult, try having smaller meals or healthy snacks throughout the day.
4. Engage in Moderate Exercises When Possible
Exercise can help reduce fatigue. Walking, stretching, or yoga can improve your energy levels over time. During exercise, endorphins are released—chemicals in the brain that make you feel good. Exercise can also help improve your heart and lung function.
When starting exercise, start small and listen to your body. Even five to 10 minutes a day of light movement, such as walking, can help. As you feel ready, gradually increase the duration or intensity of the exercise. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program to ensure it’s safe for you.
5. Manage Your Sleep Schedule
Sticking to a sleep schedule is an important part of improving fatigue. Not getting good sleep at night can carry over into the next day.
One way to improve sleep is to have a consistent sleep routine. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. Limit naps during the day, as they can interfere with nighttime sleep.
Create a bedtime routine to help you wind down. This might include reading a book, listening to soft music, or practicing deep breathing exercises.
Avoid screens and caffeine close to bedtime, as they can interfere with sleep. If these interventions aren’t helpful in improving your sleep schedule, talk with your healthcare provider for further suggestions.
6. Try Relaxation Techniques
Stress can worsen fatigue, so it's helpful to find ways to relax. Techniques likedeep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery can help calm your mind and body. Even a few minutes of these practices each day can make a difference.
7. Consider Your Medication Side Effects
Some medications that treat metastatic breast cancer can cause fatigue or make it worse. If you think your treatment might be adding to your fatigue, talk to your healthcare team. They may be able to adjust the dose, recommend a different medication, or suggest ways to manage side effects.
It’s also important to share how you’re feeling with your healthcare team. Keeping a journal of your symptoms, including when you feel most tired, can help your team understand what you’re experiencing and provide better support.
8. Reach Out for Support
Since it's difficult to manage fatigue or metastatic breast cancer alone, reach out to friends, family, or support groups for help. Talking to others who understand what you’re going through can be comforting.
Resources are available through cancer organizations that provide support services, such as counseling, financial assistance, or meal delivery. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Leaning on others can make a big difference in provide a balance for managing your fatigue and improving your quality of life.
9. Seek Help From a Professional
Sometimes, managing fatigue on your own can feel overwhelming. Consider consulting a professional, such as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, social worker, or mental health counselor specializing in working with cancer patients.
A nutritionist or dietitian with experience in oncology (cancer treatment) can create a meal plan for you that supports your energy needs.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Let your healthcare team know if your fatigue suddenly worsens, lasts more than a few weeks, or significantly interferes with your ability to function. Extreme fatigue can sometimes indicate health issues, such as anemia (a low number of healthy red blood cells) or thyroid problems, which may need treatment.
Your healthcare team can also help manage side effects from your cancer treatment. Be honest about your symptoms and any changes you’ve noticed. Your healthcare team can work with you to adjust your treatment plan or recommend additional support.
Summary
Fatigue is a challenging part of living with metastatic breast cancer, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. By delegating tasks, taking short rest breaks, eating well, staying active, and seeking support, you can manage your energy and improve your daily life. Small changes can have a big impact. Report any changes in your energy level to your healthcare team. Always consult them before trying new strategies.
