Posted 8/6/2021 6:08 PM (GMT 0)
Hello Jeff & Stephanie ~~~
Been thinking of you both, and I always follow your posts.
Jeff has been through radiation and chemotherapy, in recent months --- and I remember there was lingering and residual fatigue for me, for some weeks and months following those treatments.
That being said, ZYTIGA can certainly trigger fatigue --- and must be accompanied by PREDNISONE, each day.
I have been on ZYTIGA for six years. I go on daily trail walks, and that keeps my energy level on target.
I am very mindful of Jeff's fatigue and mobility concerns.
With these considerations in mind, does your clinic or hospital offer a physical or occupational therapist who can tailor and design some specialized "at home" exercises for Jeff?
I'm thinking even some light exercises that can be done from a comfortable sitting chair might pay dividends. I think there's a mental benefit to having daily goals, for each of us --- that are attainable and individualized.
A good friend of mine is a physical therapist, and he designs individualized exercise regimens for medical patients. He puts a lot of thought and care into each person's regimen.
The other thing I would recommend --- based on my own experiences --- my oncologist sat down with me a few years ago, and went through my labwork with a fine-toothed comb.
He soon realized my iron levels might be low, due to my treatments and medications. It was easy to add an occasional iron test to my usual labwork, and an iron supplement was recommended.
I recommend that you ask your doctor to see if there are any medications or vitamins that can be added --- to bolster energy.
Be SURE to ask for a ferritin test, to measure IRON levels on your next visit to the lab. This simple test made a difference for me.
I also made a list of iron-rich foods at that time --- and even found that sprinkling iron-rich Grape Nuts brand cereal on yogurt added a daily boost of iron to my day.
I think a focus on a wide variety of fresh produce is a great idea, too, for snacks and meals. I now blend fruits and vegetables into every meal.
Check in with Jeff's doctor --- and see what can be done to bolster energy. Check into the idea of an individualized exercise regimen that Jeff would benefit from at home.
Brainstorming alongside you both today! Wanting ALL the best for you both!
Been thinking of you both so often this summer ~~~
CYCLONE ••• # Iowa State University (Team Colors: Cardinal & Gold!)