Feeling fatigued and low

Last July I was diagnosed with stage Ia grade II endometrial adenocarcinoma.  I had a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy and oophorectomy

from which I seemed to make good recovery but never got my normal energy levels back.  In the November at my follow up appointment I was

advised to have 25 abdominal radiotherapy treatments which would reduce chances of recurrence as there was a high level of lympho-vascular invasion. 

The radiotherapy itself I found ok but the stress of the daily visits and prep took its toll and I had delightful side effects with my bladder and bowels which

I am grateful mostly settled down afterwards.  Fortunately it had little effect on my skin in that area other than a feeling like sunburn and some itching.

My main side effect has been fatigue, overwhelm  and feeling anxious and depressed which is still affecting me some 11 weeks later.  Household tasks

seem like a marathon and I really have to pace myself or I end up feeling like i'll collapse and sometimes just the thought of doing things can make me

feel overwhelmed.  I have put on weight too due to comfort overeating and not being able to exercise enough.  I also haven't had the 6 week check up but

instead, after chasing, it is next week, 12 weeks after the end of my treatment, which has put me on edge.  I feel so much worse than before my

diagnosis, operation and radiotherapy. I am just wondering if there is anyone out there has felt a similar way and if things have improved or any advice?

Sorry if I'm rambling on.

Parents
  • Hi Kayem66

    Its good to reach out and connect. Fatigue is a major side effect of a lot of treatments so you are not alone.

    As frustrating as it is its your bodies way of saying hey we need some time to rest and recuperate. Pacing is the way to go. Stop before that horrible drop hits sit and rest then if you find you have energy do a little more.

    But make sure you do nice things too...wash dishes or chat to a friend .....which makes you feel better?.

    Things will improve. Also get your team to check your iron and b12 levels as lots of treatments cause anaemia and these cause fatigue too but can be treated and improve things for you 

    Also can you access support with house stuff? Even once a fortnight might help.... 

    And maybe a counsellor its a lot to deal with.

    I hope some of this helps a little bit 

    Sorry bit disjointed 

    Sending kindest wishes RB

Reply
  • Hi Kayem66

    Its good to reach out and connect. Fatigue is a major side effect of a lot of treatments so you are not alone.

    As frustrating as it is its your bodies way of saying hey we need some time to rest and recuperate. Pacing is the way to go. Stop before that horrible drop hits sit and rest then if you find you have energy do a little more.

    But make sure you do nice things too...wash dishes or chat to a friend .....which makes you feel better?.

    Things will improve. Also get your team to check your iron and b12 levels as lots of treatments cause anaemia and these cause fatigue too but can be treated and improve things for you 

    Also can you access support with house stuff? Even once a fortnight might help.... 

    And maybe a counsellor its a lot to deal with.

    I hope some of this helps a little bit 

    Sorry bit disjointed 

    Sending kindest wishes RB

Children