How common is persistent fatigue in leukaemia?

Leukaemia affects blood-forming cells in the bone marrow. When healthy blood cells are reduced, a person may feel depleted, short of breath on exertion, light-headed or less able to do usual tasks. Treatment, infection, sleep changes, pain, low food intake and emotional strain can add to the burden. The exact cause can change over time, including during treatment. A clinician can check symptoms, blood counts and other relevant tests rather than relying on fatigue alone.

Let your haematology or oncology team know how fatigue changes your routine. Mention whether you need more rests, become breathless on activity, have dizziness, notice paleness, or find it harder to think clearly. Plan essential activities for the time of day when your energy is strongest, accept help with demanding tasks, and eat and drink as advised by your team. Avoid starting iron, vitamins or over-the-counter remedies without discussing them first.

Seek medical advice promptly if tiredness becomes sudden or severe, or if it occurs with fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, bleeding, new bruising or a fast heartbeat. Contact emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness or chest pain. Infection and bleeding can require urgent care in people with leukaemia or during its treatment.

Ask what may be contributing to your fatigue now, whether blood counts should be checked, and what symptoms should lead to an urgent call. It can also help to ask about safe activity, rest and food strategies for your current treatment plan.