Your Body and Survivorship

The physical changes that result from cancer and treatments vary in form and length depending on the cancer as well as many other factors. Survivors should consult their physicians to determine specific risks, but every survivor should be aware of the issues common to many or most survivors. These changes can take a toll on a survivor's emotional state and mentality.

Fatigue

Cancer-related fatigue is...

Ways to beat the fatigue

• overwhelming

• more severe than being just tired

• not alleviated by sleep

• able to persist for years after treatment

• can vary in intensity during treatment

• normal, but can lead to depression

• Rest, but don't be lethargic

• Be as active as possible

• Save energy by planning

• Ask for help with big tasks

• Talk openly about your fatigue

• Practice good nutrition

A Short Video About The Many Possible Physical Effects Resulting From Cancer and Treatments. Young survivors talk about body changes in a video from the Livestrong Foundation.

Pain

The American Cancer Society (ACS) explains that pain is almost always a part of cancer and treatment, but likewise it can almost always be alleviated or controlled with modest treatment. It is important that survivors communicate their pain to their health care team because chronic pain can impair healthy behaviors like exercise and it can lead to depression. Two very common types of pain identified by ACS are:

Peripheral Neuropathy: tingling, burning, and numbness

Bone Pain: a deep bruising or tender pain