Fatigue and Lethargy in Palliative Care

Abstract

Fatigue is the most common symptom experienced by patients with chronic progressive illnesses such as cancer, chronic heart failure (CHF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and multiple sclerosis (MS). While it is normal to feel fatigue when the body or mind has been exerted, pathological fatigue is pervasive, may occur with little or no exertion and may not be relieved by sleep or rest. Fatigue has both physical and psychological components. It may manifest physically as a feeling of weakness or psychologically as mental tiredness, lack of motivation and reduced concentration.