What is cancer fatigue?

Fatigue means tiredness and lack of energy. For people with cancer, this can be severe and last a long time. Cancer or its treatment can cause fatigue.

Causes of cancer fatigue

Many things can cause fatigue in people with cancer. This includes the cancer itself and the type of treatment you might have. 

How is fatigue assessed?

Before you are treated for fatigue, your doctor will need to ask some questions about how you feel and the treatment you are having.

Managing and treating cancer fatigue

There are many ways to manage fatigue and the symptoms you might have. It is important to tell your doctor if you think you may have fatigue.

Research into cancer fatigue

Many people with cancer say fatigue is one of the symptoms that impacts them most. Researchers are investigating what causes fatigue and how to treat it.

Resources and support

There are lots of organisations, support groups and helpful books to help you cope with symptoms and side effects caused by cancer and its treatment.

Last reviewed: 
06 Jan 2020
Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer