5. Fatigue: GIST’s Silent Drainer
Fatigue, in the vast landscape of symptoms, often remains under-acknowledged. With GIST, fatigue doesn’t emanate from a late-night or an intense workout. It’s a deep-seated, persistent exhaustion that isn’t alleviated by rest.
Interestingly, the fatigue linked to GIST is multifactorial. The tumor’s metabolic demands can sap energy. The body, in its endeavor to combat the tumor, diverts resources, leading to an energy deficit. Additionally, other associated symptoms, like anemia or weight loss, can further intensify fatigue.
The ripple effects of this exhaustion are far-reaching. Simple tasks become Herculean efforts. There’s a mental fog that descends, affecting concentration and decision-making. Over time, social engagements decline, hobbies fall by the wayside, and the world seems to contract. (5)
