Chemo-Related Fatigue: How to Care for Your Child

Fatigue is a feeling of exhaustion. Chemo-related fatigue happens for different reasons, like anemia (low red blood count), not drinking enough liquids, or not feeling hungry enough to eat. Fatigue may be worse on the days after chemotherapy. You can help make your child more comfortable at home.

• If the health care provider prescribed medicine, give it to your child as directed.

• Let your child know that the fatigue will get better.

• Encourage your child to get enough rest and sleep. Some kids find short naps and rest breaks more helpful than long ones.

• Encourage gentle exercise, such as short walks or yoga.

• When your child has more energy, let him or her play and be active.

• When your child has less energy, suggest quiet activities, such as reading, interactive video games or board games, or talking with family members and friends.

• Give your child plenty of liquids to drink. Avoid caffeinated drinks, especially in the afternoon and evening.

• Offer your child a balanced diet with enough protein. When your child isn't hungry, offer several small meals and healthy snacks each day.

Your child:

• is too weak to move

• feels dizzy or lightheaded

• can't do activities that he or she wants to do, even briefly

• seems depressed

• has a fever above: 

  • 101ºF (38.3ºC) when taken by mouth once, or 100.4ºF (38ºC) when taken by mouth two times, at least 1 hour apart

  • 100.4ºF (38ºC) when taken under the arm once, or 100ºF (37.8ºC) when taken under the arm two times, at least 1 hour apart

• Your child is hard to wake up.

Can other symptoms happen with fatigue? Yes, along with being tired, your child might:

• have a hard time paying attention to things

• feel sad, angry, or moody

What if my child doesn't begin to feel more energetic?

• Call your health care provider to schedule a visit.

• Ask about a support group for kids with cancer.

• Consider having your child talk with a counselor.