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Real members of MyLeukemiaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
April 17
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CLL Diet: 4 Foods To Eat and 3 Foods To Avoid Read Article...
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I pace myself. I had been visiting the gym 3 times a week. If I stop for a few weeks when I return I start off with less work & 1/2 hour visit. Then increase time at gym & activities. I am busy in the morning but relax in the afternoon. I eating healthy and take vitamins and supplements. I now notice slight fatigue but I am 74 but I get around like I am 40? I hope you find what is required to be a better person.

April 19
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Soultime12, I am going on 8 years in September. 2 years after that came the diagnosis Chronic Kidney Disease. Both of these bring in "tired" big time. Sleeping for me however is a challenge. Many nights and early mornings I am still up. Napping is almost impossible for me. Rarely do I nap. I envy people who can. My heart hurt when I read that you don't harbor on who you were before diagnosis because it brings sadness. That is the way I feel also. My energetic body is no more. Or should I say not as much. During a hospital stay, when I was asked for my medical history I mentioned that the list was long. The nurse commented, "the list might be long, but you walked in without assistance. You are not in wheelchair, nor do you need a cane. You are able to answer questions about your health and recalling important information. Patients that are much younger, have not been able to do what you do now." So, that was something I needed to hear. A sweet reminder of the able bodied person I still am. Totally grateful and keeping that in mind. Just thought I would share that with you. Hoping your weekend is a restful and happy one. Take good care,

April 18 (edited)
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi SJ. I’ve had CLL for 10 yrs, thankfully no treatments. Fatigue was & still is my primary symptom. Mind over matter as far as coping with it on a daily basis. Was 53 when diagnosed & had no choice but to accept & do what I needed to do to take care of my body & putting my health first. Some days I’ll nap for 20 min & be fine, other days I might nap for 2 hrs. 12-13 hrs a night has been the norm for the past 10 yrs. I don’t think or harbor on who I was before my diagnosis as that only brings sadness..I just keep moving forward, embrace each & every day & listen to my body when it needs to recharge..

April 17
MyLeukemiaTeam

How do others cope with extreme fatigue from CLL?

Fatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of CLL, even for active people like yourself. Many members share your frustration, with some describing it as the worst part of living with CLL.

Here are strategies that have helped others cope:

Rest and Pace Show Full Answer

How do others cope with extreme fatigue from CLL?

Fatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of CLL, even for active people like yourself. Many members share your frustration, with some describing it as the worst part of living with CLL.

Here are strategies that have helped others cope:

Rest and Pace Yourself
- Take short power naps during the day when needed
- Listen to your body and rest before you become completely exhausted
- Work around fatigue rather than fighting it
- Break tasks into smaller chunks with rest periods in between

Stay Physically Active
Despite feeling tired, regular exercise can actually reduce fatigue. Members report that moving more helps them feel less sluggish. Even moderate activity like walking three days a week can make a difference. Start slowly and work up to what feels manageable for you.

Eat a Nutritious Diet
Focus on anti-inflammatory foods including:
- Fatty fish
- Nuts and seeds
- Fresh fruits and vegetables (different colors)
- Whole grains

Better nutrition has been linked to reduced fatigue in people with blood cancers.

Talk to Your Doctor
Your healthcare team can check for anemia (common with CLL and a major cause of fatigue), adjust medications that might be contributing to tiredness, or even revisit your treatment plan. Sometimes treating the CLL more aggressively can help reduce fatigue.

As one MyLeukemiaTeam member shared: "I have learned to work around it and rest when I need to."

April 17
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Thank you Cathy for sharing your experience & your journey. It helps to be reminded too like when that nurse mentioned that there are others that are much much worse off than you & I. Have you tried various natural type strategies in regards to sleeping better (dark room, no tv/cell usage hour before bed, reading, chamomile tea)? May you have a wonderful & enjoyable weekend as well! I have today off so I’m headed out to a couple of local thrift stores & to seize thy day! Hugs & smiles!

April 18

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