The basis of cancer fatigue: where does it come from?

Fatigue is a common complaint that may of us experience at one time or another, and which is normally relieved by a good night's sleep. For the cancer patient this is not often the case. Several studies have focused on the causes and objective and subjective manifestations of fatigue. The aetiology may be physiological, psychological or pathological. The frequency and severity of the symptoms depend on the cause of the fatigue. Because of the complexity of the situation, a comprehensive knowledge of the possible causes and contributing factors permits a more thorough assessment by the nurse. This leads to a precise nursing diagnosis which allows a nursing strategy to be tailored to the individual patient.