Anyone experience muscle/joint fatigue years after H&N cancer?

Hello @pageme. It is not unusual to have prolonged fatigue and muscle weakness/joint discomfort for years after and I think it depends a lot on our age. I am 13 years from original surgery and age 72 working hard with exercise and protein intake to build/keep strength. It is a battle and too easy to give in to fatigue when you hit that brick wall. I found that virtual yoga classes are helpful. You don't have to leave home and it can be a good way to start the day, eventually resulting in more energy. I second the thyroid check, especially at an older age with thyroid damage, as often they just run a TSH and if it normal then nothing more. You should have a complete panel or at least T4 to see what your level is. I found that my dose needed tweaking and we monitor every 6 months now. Protein in my diet gives more energy than carbohydrates. Perhaps an oral B12 supplement would be helpful also? I know it took 4-5 years after my initial surg/rad/chemo before I really started to feel alive and I was 58 when this all started. Keep pushing yourself gently and you will see progress.

I second the need for protein. I often add a protein drink to my diet. It sounds like you do lots of exercise— maybe find ways to exercise with others? I had breast cancer before oral cancer and am on a breast cancer survivor dragon boat team. We do off season exercise class and someone often says, they push themselves working out with the support of others. I get super tired, and have realized that I need naps and going to bed early after days with busy schedules. Give yourself grace and believe that physical strength will improve over time. I really like Pilates classes for improving strength, balance and coordination.
Take good care.

Hi yes I too have the fatigue. Have you had your thyroid checked? I did and no thyroid in my body. Dr put me on medication for it and I can't believe how much better I am now. Also check , vitamins b, c ,d and magnesium, potassium, and zinc levels. Let me know how you go . 😁

@sart
Hi, I just got bloodwork back. Turns out I am anemic. My hemoglobin & hemocrit levels are low. So, I am taking an iron supplement. I have difficulty eating because of mandiblectomy. My diet is not the best. Find it hard to chew certain foods. This is so frustrating! Not getting all the viramins & nutrients I need. I take levothyroxine for thyroid. Thanks for sharing

@pageme hi yes eating is a biggie! I found quinoa, with tuna, cheese, egg , or anything soft, mixed in easy to eat . bone broth with mashed sweet potato, potato and broccoli good too. Avocado is a favourite of mine.. Hope some of this helps. 😁

@sart
Hi, how do you eat some of those foods? Do you have all ur bottom teeth? I dont. Just left side (4). I have a partial denture but not able to eat with it yet. So I barely manage.

@pageme hi mostly put them in the nutri bullet first and use a teaspoon to eat with.no all my teeth were removed before radiation treatment started . My doctor put me onto numit cream and I use SM 33 baby teething gel on my gums every morning and night and anytime 🤣🤣