CommunitiesHER2+How long does chemo fatigue last?

How long does chemo fatigue last?

DT

Community Member

6 months ago

Had to split up my first chemo session due to emergency port removal surgery day 1. Finished up Monday and felt ok enough to do things until yesterday afternoon. How long does the overwhelming fatigue last?Walking to the bathroom is a major ordeal and eating/drinking nearly impossible. Am I an outlier? Does it get better? Would love to hear other experiences.

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

Chemo fatigue can vary greatly from person to person, but the overwhelming exhaustion you're experiencing is unfortunately common and completely understandable, especially after having complications with your port. Many patients find that fatigue tends to improve gradually over the days and weeks following treatment, though the timeline differs for everyone. Your care team can provide the best guidance on what to expect with your specific treatment plan, and it's worth reaching out to them if you're concerned about your current symptoms or need support managing them.

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RS

Community Member

5 months ago

Make sure to drink lots of water and electrolytes. I used Biotene for rinsing and mouth wash about 3-5 times a day. My fatigue and other issues kicked in a few days after. Did the Doc give you any meds to take for 3 days after your Chemo? I was given a med for nausea and a corticosteroid as well to be taken days 2,3 and 4 after chemo.

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TG

Community Member

5 months ago

The fatigue can come and go. I finished chemo in Dec.. surgery in February, radiation in April and May and phesgo injection now,and the fatigue is something I am learning to live with. You will have good days, and some fatigue,but you are strong and rest whenever you need and get fresh air and walks in. We are here for you!🩷💪

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RS

Community Member

5 months ago

@Tara G how many sessions of radiation did you have? Is it weekly or monthly? Just curious as I will be doing radiation after surgery. Thanks!

DT

Community Member

5 months ago

Thanks so much for the encouragement. I do have meds for nausea and diarrhea. Mostly seem to be working. I was used to some fatigue before (diagnosed with ra October 2024) but nothing on this scale. Doing much better today. Giving myself permission to rest is a tough one!

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TG

Community Member

5 months ago

@ Ram S. I had 20rounds and it's daily, takes about 10min each session. I started at the end of April and finished at the end of May..the last week after the boost it took alot out of me,and I get mad sometimes about my energy levels, but I am blessed to be alive. I am not sure if everyone has different rounds or how ever many rounds. I had stage II HER 2 + ...in addition to my phesgo injection 💉 I will also have Lupron and Anastrazole too. God Bless us all going through this. Thankful we have each other to chat with 🩷

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RS

Community Member

5 months ago

@ Tara G. Thank you! Yes indeed we have each other as we navigate through this ♥️

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CA

Community Member

2 months ago

Chemo fatigue can vary greatly from person to person, but the overwhelming exhaustion you're experiencing is unfortunately common and completely understandable, especially after having complications with your port. Many patients find that fatigue tends to improve gradually over the days and weeks following treatment, though the timeline differs for everyone. Your care team can provide the best guidance on what to expect with your specific treatment plan, and it's worth reaching out to them if you're concerned about your current symptoms or need support managing them.

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