This article was recently printed in my local newspaper. It actually deals with cancer treatment fatigue, but after having read it, I realized that HCV and interferon causes alot of the same problems. I hope some of these suggestions help.

 

Cancer fatigue often is not recognized, but is a common cancer treatment side effect. Here are some signs of cancer fatigue and tips on how to conserve energy until patients can return to their normal routines:

• You feel weary or exhausted. It may be physical, emotional and/or mental exhaustion.
• Your body (especially your arms and legs) feels very heavy.
• You don't want to do normal activities, such as eating or shopping.
• You don't maintain your personal appearance.
• You can't concentrate or think clearly.

BATHING:

• Wash hair in shower, not over sink
• Sit to dry off
• Wear a terry robe, instead of drying off
• Use the shower organizer over the showerhead to avoid leaning or reaching
• Use safety strips on the floor of the tub
• Install a grab rail
• Sit on a shower bench or on a lawn chair while showering
• Use moderate temperature water rather than hot
• Use long-handled sponge or brush to reach feet or back

• Sit
• Don't lean forward unsupported
• Rest elbows on counter or dressing table
• Use long-handled brushes or combs to avoid holding arms overhead
• Use elevated commode seat

• Loose-fitting clothes allow you to breathe more easily
• Lay out clothes before starting, to avoid extra steps
• Bring your foot to your knee to apply shoes and socks so you won't have to lean over
• Wear slip-on shoes
• Use a long-handled shoehorn and a sock aid
• Fasten bra in front and turn to tack
• Wear button-front shirts rather than pullovers
• Use a reacher and/or a dressing stick

• Wear low-heeled shoes
• Wear shoes with a shock-absorbent sole or insole
• Use a wheelchair for long trips (the mall, etc.)
• Maintain good posture while driving
• Use cruise control if possible
• Install hall hand rails
• Install ramps
• Place chair strategically to allow rest stops (along a long hallway)

• Spread out tasks over the week
• Do a little bit each day
• Delegate heavy work
• Hire help
• Use a wheeled cart or carpenters apron to carry supplies
• Do whatever you can sitting
• Use long-handled duster, mops, dustpan

• Make a list first
• Organize the grocery list by store aisle
• Use the grocery cart for support
• Use a power scooter if the store has one
• Request store assistance with shopping and getting to the car
• Shop during less busy times
• Shop with a friend
• Delegate shopping

• Assemble all ingredients before you start
• Use mixes or pre-packaged foods
• Use cookware you can serve from
• Use smaller appliances (mixer, toaster oven, microwave)
• Use electric knife and can opener
• Buy ergonomically designed utensils
• Transport items on a rolling cart
• Store frequently used items at chest level to avoid bending and stretching
• Line ovens and burner drip pans with aluminum foil
• Sit while preparing food
• Rest elbows on table or counter
• Let dishes soak rather than scrubbing
• Let dishes air dry
• Use a dishwasher
• Delegate dish washing
• Use a jar opener
• Use a rubber mat or wet towel under mixing bowls to help steady it while stirring or mixing
• Don't lift heavy pans off the stove; ladle the food at the stove
• Use mitten pot holders to take advantage of the entire hand to lift
• Use placemats instead of tablecloths; they are easier to place on the table and easier to clean
• Use lightweight utensils
• Prepare double portions and freeze for later
• Leave heavy containers where they can be accessed without lifting
• Drag garbage bags instead of lifting (or use a wheeled cart)

• Use a laundry cart on wheels
• Use an automatic washer and dryer
• Sit to transfer clothes to the dryer
• Use commercial prewash instead of scrubbing
• Wash bras and socks in a lingerie bag to avoid tangling
• Drain hand washables and press the water out instead of wringing
• Sit to iron
• Adjust the ironing board height
• Use an iron with a spray attachment
• Slide the iron onto an asbestos pad between items to avoid lifting
• Use a lightweight iron
• Hang clothes on the doorknob instead of the top of the door

• Plan workload around your most energetic times of the day
• Arrange workplace ergonomically

• Wear comfortable clothing
• Use adaptive equipment
• Select less strenuous activities
• Go with a friend
• Use a wheelchair or a golf cart

SOURCE:   VENTURA COUNTY STAR