Living with worsening fatigue over time is really tough, and it's completely understandable to feel frustrated — especially when you're already putting in the effort with physical therapy. Fatigue in myeloma is one of the most complex symptoms to manage because so many things can contribute to it at once.
It's worth having Show Full Answer
Living with worsening fatigue over time is really tough, and it's completely understandable to feel frustrated — especially when you're already putting in the effort with physical therapy. Fatigue in myeloma is one of the most complex symptoms to manage because so many things can contribute to it at once.
It's worth having an honest conversation with your care team about the worsening fatigue, as it can sometimes signal changes in your myeloma or treatment response that need attention. Beyond physical therapy, here are some strategies that may help:
- Be kind to yourself — fatigue with myeloma is real and not a sign of weakness. Pushing too hard can make it worse
- Prioritize your day — focus energy on one or two meaningful activities and tackle them when you feel your best
- Check your nutrition — poor nutrient absorption is common with myeloma and can worsen fatigue significantly
- Address emotional health — anxiety and depression can amplify fatigue; speaking with a counselor can help
- Improve sleep habits — a consistent bedtime routine, limiting naps, and avoiding caffeine later in the day can make a real difference
- Stay gently active — low-to-moderate intensity exercise like walking or water aerobics has shown benefits for myeloma-related fatigue As one MyMyelomaTeam member put it, "I try to walk twice daily with a nap in between" — finding that balance between rest and movement can be key.
The most important step is looping in your doctor so they can help identify and treat any underlying causes driving the fatigue.
October 12
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