Khaberni - The Cancer Research Society in the United Kingdom has warned of a very common symptom that may indicate cancer, appearing from the moment of waking and continuing throughout the day, even after getting enough sleep or rest.
The society explained that ongoing and exhausting fatigue, which affects about 65% of cancer patients, is often overlooked or misinterpreted as temporary fatigue or a result of daily life stresses, while in some cases it might be one of the early symptoms of the disease.
Feeling mildly fatigued in the morning is common amongst most people, especially in winter when sunlight is scarce and feelings of lethargy increase. However, fatigue that does not go away with rest or sleep warrants attention, according to the charity, as it may be linked to a dysfunction in bodily functions due to cancer or its treatment.
The society added that cancer-related fatigue affects the patient physically, mentally, and emotionally, and varies in intensity and duration from one person to another. The society stated in its statement: "This type of fatigue can make daily life extremely difficult, as the patient loses the energy to perform even the simplest tasks such as cooking, bathing, or talking with others".
Key signs that may accompany this type of fatigue:
Severe lack of energy and the desire to sleep most of the time.
The need for rest even without exerting any effort.
Weakness in concentration and difficulty in thinking clearly or making decisions.
Muscle pain or shortness of breath after simple tasks.
Disorders in sleep and difficulty in waking up.
A constant feeling of sadness or loss of interest in usual activities.
The society noted that some patients may need to stop working completely due to chronic fatigue, and this fatigue may be a constant reminder of their illness, increasing the psychological burden on them.
Although continuous fatigue may be a symptom of cancer, it does not necessarily always indicate its presence. There are other possible causes, such as:
Anemia.
Thyroid disorders.
Diabetes.
Heart or kidney disease.
Long-term COVID.
Mental health issues.
Some medications, including antidepressants, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and pain relievers, can also cause feelings of fatigue.
The society emphasized the importance of consulting a doctor if the fatigue is unexplained or persists for a long time, as it may be an early signal of a serious health issue that requires medical examination and early treatment.
