There’s no fatigue like cancer fatigue.
Pediatric cancer patients often experience extreme fatigue during treatment thanks to chemotherapy and radiation, along with the physical and emotional toll of the disease. However, there are ways to help these young patients regain energy and improve their quality of life during their journey:
As much as our kids might fight bedtime, sleep is one of the best things we can do. It’s not just about resting and replenishing energy but also healing the body. The better the sleep, the more effective these essential processes are. Create a cool, comfortable sleeping environment. Encourage a consistent sleep schedule with regular bedtimes and wake-up times. Avoid devices in bed.
Cancer patients are often tired during the day, so naps are common. And while short naps during the day can be beneficial, long or late naps might interfere with nighttime sleep.
The way we fuel our bodies impacts energy levels. When a child is fighting cancer, nutrition is that much more important! Some treatments might diminish appetite or cause nausea, so there will be some trial and error. Your best bet is offering small, nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day to help maintain energy levels – focus on high-protein, high-calorie options.
Adequate hydration also helps fight against fatigue. Gift your child a fun or flashy water bottle that makes drinking water fun and enticing.
When your child feels fatigued, exercise is likely the last thing on their mind. That said, some light activity can boost energy and improve mood. It doesn’t have to be anything strenuous – a short walk, some stretches, or typical play. Some hospitals may offer more tailored exercise programs, too. They’ll help ensure your child isn’t overdoing it and stays safe.
Mental well-being impacts energy levels. Kids with cancer often face symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions that can make it hard to function like normal. Access to counseling or support groups can help your child process emotions and manage mental fatigue. It also helps to get involved in art, music, or play therapy. These creative outlets help kids process emotions and reduce stress.
Teach your child to pace themselves by breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks with rest periods in between. It prevents being overloaded or overwhelmed! Because kids undergoing cancer treatment will fatigue faster, they may have to relearn their limits. Help them prioritize important, favorite activities, focusing their limited energy on these rather than trying to do everything.
And, as always, be willing to jump in and help with daily, sometimes tasking activities like bathing, getting dressed, etc.
Cancer treatments may feel like a double-edged sword when they cause all sorts of side effects. One of these common side effects is anemia, which exacerbates fatigue. Effective pain management matters, too, because untreated pain drains energy. Be sure your child knows to tell you how they’re feeling.
Cancer treatment is stressful, no ifs, ands, or buts about it. It very likely puts the body into “fight or flight” mode on a regular basis. That can be exhausting! Simple mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or relaxation techniques help manage this stress. Balance light activity with comfortable, calming things like reading, listening to music, or watching movies.
While we want to use all of the natural remedies available, sometimes medical intervention is necessary. Doctors can recommend medications to help manage severe fatigue on a case-by-case basis, considering the child’s overall health and treatment plan.
Gentle massage can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and provide a sense of relaxation. There are pediatric massage therapists who can help with techniques appropriate for children. Not all children are comfortable with massage, though. That’s okay – even being near a loved one while rubbing their back and cuddling can be a great comfort.
It’s hard to stay energized at the best of times, but cancer makes it that much harder. As a parent and caregiver, the best thing you can do is listen to your child and help them do the things that will help conserve and boost energy. Their needs may change, and that’s okay! What matters is that you are there and willing to help them explore solutions.