How to Keep Up Your Energy During Melanoma Treatment

Doctor William C Lloyd Healthgrades Medical Reviewer
Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS
Written By Mary Elizabeth Dallas on December 26, 2021
  • smiling middle aged woman against gray background
    Battling Fatigue
    Many people with cancer suffer from fatigue. The disease itself can zap your energy. Feeling tired, weak or worn out is also the most common side effect of cancer treatment. When you're tired but healthy, a nap or a good night’s sleep may be all you need. But when you're undergoing melanoma treatment, this may not be enough. Even after your treatment ends, you may struggle to regain your energy. Here are some things you can do to manage fatigue and improve your quality of life.
  • woman-sitting-up-in-bed-with-insomnia
    Manage Pain
    Long-lasting pain can decrease your appetite and cause you to lose sleep. You may also become less active. All of these things can lead to depression, which can make fatigue from melanoma treatment even worse. Don't suffer in silence. Ask your doctor for help with your pain. A different medication might help. Or, your doctor may change the dosage of your current drugs.
  • Ready for anything
    Stay Active
    Being sedentary can actually make you feel more tired. Staying active can increase your energy during melanoma treatment. It can improve your appetite and your quality of life. It will also help restore your energy level more quickly after your treatment ends. Try to get light activity, such as walking, throughout the week. Your doctor may also suggest you talk with a physical therapist or exercise trainer. These professionals can help you find the exercises and activities you enjoy and that work best for you.
  • Male friends
    Stay Connected
    Having cancer is stressful. Feelings of fear or anxiety can make you feel tired. Fatigue is hard on your mind as well as your body. Your mood may change. Depression can set in. You might start to avoid people and social events. You may spend less time with family or friends and more time sleeping. Isolating yourself can make depression worse, which in turn can make you feel less energetic. Talk with your doctor about how you're feeling. Treating anxiety and depression can help restore your energy.
  • fruits-and-vegetables
    Focus on Nutrition
    Cancer can affect how your body digests food, leading to poor nutrition and fatigue. Your treatment may also cause unpleasant side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, making it difficult to eat and keep up your energy. Good nutrition can help. Drink plenty of water and juices to stay hydrated, but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Make sure you eat a balanced diet with enough protein, calories, and fresh fruits and vegetables to heal. Let your doctor know if you’re having problems eating properly.
  • Senior woman sleeping
    Get Enough Rest
    It’s important to rest during melanoma treatment. Try to get at least 7 or 8 hours of sleep each night. If you aren’t sleeping well at night, take short naps during the day. But be careful not to get too much daytime sleep. It can make you feel even more drained. Let your doctor know if poor sleep is affecting your daily routine. Save your energy for the activities most important to you. Keep track of when you feel your best and plan your day around those times.
  • Doctor with hand on patients shoulder
    Speak Up
    It's true fatigue is a common side effect of melanoma treatment. However, there are health conditions other than melanoma that can make you feel tired. For instance, your treatment can lead to a low red blood cell count—or anemia. This can result in weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. So, let your doctor know how you're feeling. This is especially important if you have a sudden decrease in energy. Finding the causes of your symptoms and treating them can help you regain your energy.
  • holding-hands-on-table
    Ask for Help
    Ask those around you for help when you’re feeling tired. You'll be able to conserve energy if you let others support you. Your friends or relatives may offer to lend a hand but not know exactly what to do. Do you need someone to run errands? Prepare meals? Help with housework? Be sure to let them know specifically what you need.
How to Keep Up Your Energy During Melanoma Treatment
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Last Review Date: 2021 Dec 26
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.