Chemotoxicity and Fatigue
Health Expert
Chemotoxicity and Fatigue
Certain types of chemotherapy drugs can damage your heart and/or lungs. Heart problems can occur even seven to eight years after treatment has ended.
Chemotherapy drugs with a higher risk of causing heart problems include adriamycin, epirubicin and herceptin. In addition, radiation has the potential to cause scarring to the heart and coronary arteries that may restrict heart pumping and blood flow. Symptoms may include chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, leg swelling, high or low blood pressure, heart rhythm and shortness of breath.
When the lungs are affected, you may have shortness of breath, coughing, pain or other symptoms.
Lingering fatigue is a common side effect of some chemotherapy drugs and radiation. About 90% of patients with cancer experience persistent tiredness that interferes with usual functioning. Cancer-related fatigue has been described as an overwhelming lack of energy that affects all aspects of life. It doesn't improve with rest.
Tips for Self-Managing Fatigue
At the Heart of Cancer Care
Certain cancer treatments can increase your risk for heart problems. A cardio-oncologist can help.
- Try to identify a pattern to your fatigue
- Plan activities during your peak energy time
- Pace yourself on days you feel good so you don't overdo it
- Prioritize tasks and learn to ask for help
- Plan quiet activities at home for two to three days after chemotherapy
- Schedule 15-20 minutes of quiet time each day to avoid exhaustion
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Reduce stress and participate in relaxing activities
- Establish a consistent routine before bed to unwind
- Exercise regularly
If you're still not sleeping well after trying these tips or you're unable to do your daily activities due to fatigue, call your health care team. Specialized therapy can make a big impact.
Treatment
A primary treatment for chemotoxicity and fatigue is exercise. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity, strength training two to three times a week, and flexibility exercises.
If you have heart or lung damage due to chemotherapy or radiation, or if you're struggling to complete your daily activities due to fatigue, we can help.
CORE
Our 12-week cardio-oncology rehabilitation program (CORE) is designed to relieve symptoms of cardiac toxicity so can you safely increase your activity level and reduce cancer-related fatigue.
An expert physical therapist with advanced training in oncology rehabilitation leads CORE. Your exercise program is customized to match your current level of function and to protect your heart from added stress.
These tailored exercises will boost your mental health and physical function as well as reduce fatigue and pain. Exercise also reduces your risk of cancer recurrence and increases your life span.
During CORE, you will safely progress your activity with the reassuring guidance of a physical therapist who will carefully monitor your heart and breathing rate, blood pressure, and balance.
CORE is for patients in current treatment or after treatment. Patients who have the best outcomes attend sessions in our NKCH rehabilitation facilities and also exercise at home.
Contact Us
Most health insurance providers cover the cost of the CORE program with a doctor's referral. If you need help with a referral or for more information, call 816.691.1795.