Read our booklet about fatigue
Download our booklet, Fatigue and pancreatic cancer, for more information about fatigue.
You can also order a physical copy.
Fatigue is when you feel very very tired. Fatigue isn’t the same as just feeling tired. It can be exhausting and draining.
Many people with pancreatic cancer have fatigue at some point. It can get worse during treatment and carry on for a few months after treatment. You might feel tired all or most of the time or you might feel very tired suddenly for no clear reason. You may feel weak, not able to concentrate, or have problems sleeping. It might be hard to do everyday things like working and shopping, or to do the things you enjoy. Fatigue can be hard to cope with and may make you feel down. Read more about how fatigue can affect you.
Download our booklet, Fatigue and pancreatic cancer, for more information about fatigue.
You can also order a physical copy.
Many things can cause fatigue when you have pancreatic cancer.
"My partner’s fatigue was caused by treatment. Knowing what days of his cycle he felt worst meant we could organise nice things, such as trips away or meals out, when we knew he wouldn’t feel so wiped out."
Speak to your doctor or nurse – they will be able to help you if you have fatigue. You should see a specialist nurse, who can provide expert care and advice about pancreatic cancer, and will be able to answer your questions. There are other professionals who can also help, like occupational therapists (OTs).
You can also speak to our specialist nurses on our confidential Support Line.
For many people, there are things that can help if you have fatigue. It is not something you have to put up with.
Fatigue can have a big impact on your daily life, and make it harder to do the things you used to. Read our tips for dealing with this, including tips about:
We also have tips for your family so that they can help if you have fatigue.
It can be hard coping with fatigue – but there is support available.
You might want to write down any questions you have for your doctor or nurse. You may also want to take someone with you when you see your doctor. They can write down the answers to any questions and any other important information
References
Email us at publications@pancreaticcancer.org.uk for a list of sources used to write this information
Acknowledgements
Published February 2020
To be reviewed February 2022