The ICD definition
of cancer-related fatigue highlights the multidimensional nature
of fatigue. To some extent, all symptoms can be depicted from
this perspective, incorporating descriptors focused on intensity,
temporal relations (e.g. fluctuation and course), and quality.
The quality of fatigue, which generally has been neglected in
previous research, may be particularly relevant to an understanding
of the pathophysiology and management of the phenomenon. The
language used by patients to describe fatigue varies, and can
relate to a global lack of energy, cognitive impairment, sleepiness,
muscle weakness, mood disturbance, or some combination of these
descriptors.
| Table
3.2: Descriptors Applied to Fatigue
|
|---|
| Related
to a Sense of Energy or Vitality
| Related
to Cognitive Change
| Related
to Sleep
| Related
to Strength
| Related
to Mood
|
|---|
|
Fatigue
Lack of energy
Lethargic
Tiredness
Exhaustion
|
Clouded
or confused
Apathetic
Inattentive
Poor
concentration
Poor
memory
|
Somnolent
or sleepy
Non-restorative
sleep
|
Weakness
Fatiguability
of muscles
Post-exertional
breathlessness or
exhaustion
|
Irritability
Lability
Depressed
|
|