William Breitbart of Memorial Sloan Kettering answers questions about fatigue and suggested strategies that may help on the cancer center’s blog.

Rest alone typically does not restore energy in someone who has cancer-related fatigue. However, treating the underlying cause of fatigue will often make you feel better. It’s important to report your symptoms to your doctor so that he or she can identify and address the possible root of the problem.

For example, if you are anemic, your physician can boost your red blood cells with a blood transfusion or medication. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking a medicine that is known to cause fatigue or replace it with something else. Relieving pain and nausea will reduce fatigue, and for some people, replenishing nutritional or vitamin deficiencies may be helpful.