Extreme fatigue

Hello. I’m looking for some advuce, not sure where to turn. I completed treatment for cervical cancer in November 2023. This was radiotherapy, chemotherapy and brachytherapy. I’ve been struggling with fatigue since treatment ended. I’ve told my cns, oncologist and my GP. They thinks it’s a combination of treatment and going through the menopause. I’m on HRT and have been since Feb 2024.I have had an increase in my antidepressants 7 months ago. I returned back to work 8 weeks ago. I am really struggling with the fatigue, to the point it’s becoming distressing. I can’t function day to day, I have to force myself to go to work. When I’m not working all I do is sleep, sometimes up to 16 hours a day. I have three children and feel as though I can’t be a mum as all I do is crave sleep. I’ve tried battling against it but I just can’t manage. My bloods were checked earlier in the year and all were okay. I’ve also spoken with a psychologist to see if this would help with the fatigue. I am so desperate to feel normal again, I am literally just existing. I’d be so grateful for any advice. Thank you. 

  • Hi there aggie1612 and thanks for the post

    I am sorry to hear about the treatment you completed last year and the fatigue you have been left with that is interfering with every aspect of your life.

    Unfortunately fatigue can linger on for quite some time following treatment and can be difficult to get over. Things generally do improve with time but after all your body and mind has been through with treatment it really can take it's toll on the road to recovery.

    Alongside this going through the menopause isn't likely to be helping but maybe some psychology as you have mentioned may help. Would continue to let the team involved in your care know about how this impacting your life in case they can suggest anything else.

    It seems you have had recent blood tests that have returned in normal ranges which is positive news.

    We have a section of information about managing and treating cancer fatigue on our website suggesting things like exercise, eating a healthy diet, cognitive behaviour therapy cbt and other complementary therapies that can all help manage this.

    I think it is often about finding what is best and right for you which can be a matter of trial and error in some cases.

    I hope this helps but do speak with your doctor again if things don't seem to be improving for you.

    All the best

    Naomi