Fatigue

I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer Nov 2019. I had a massive op followed by four bouts of chemotherapy. After all this time I am totally fatigued. I also have noticed bruises appearing on my body even when I haven't knocked myself. For the past six months I have had pain when trying to swallow or eat. I'm so worried the cancer may have came back. What should I do?

Regards

  •  

    Hi Normajean,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    I am not a doctor, but I know from personal experience that It does take some of us a long time to overcome the fatigue and some of us never do. Are you on any medication to thin your blood? This can cause bruises all over the body without any pressure.

    Instead of worrying about the pain you have when trying to swallow, please see your GP urgently. If you tell the receptionists why you need an appointment, they will probably arrange a telephone consultation first of all, then your GP should see you and arrange referral if necessary.  If this is a return of your cancer, the sooner you get it seen to the better the outcome is likely to be. In the meantime, try not to panic until you know whether or not there is any need to worry.

    Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you. I sincerely hope that all turns out well for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    I am sorry to hear that you had treatment for ovarian cancer and I can appreciate that you have some concerns about your health now.

    I am afraid that I can't tell you why you are fatigued still (although some people feel tired many months and sometimes years after having cancer treatment) and have the bruises you mention. While these symptoms are worrying you in case your cancer could have come back, they don't necessarily mean it has.

    Your symptoms of pain when eating again may not have a serious cause but should still be checked out to see what could be causing it. So let you cancer team know about your symptoms but you could also make a GP appointment to get your concerns checked out.

    I hope you are able to get this sorted out and that you will be ok.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline