Fatigue is one of the most common after-effects of cardiac arrest, yet it is also one of the least understood and most frequently dismissed. If you are experiencing profound tiredness that does not improve with rest, you are not alone — and you are not imagining it.
This leaflet provides information and practical strategies for managing fatigue after cardiac arrest, drawing on the expertise of occupational therapist and fatigue specialist Donna Malley. It is designed to be used alongside clinical support, not as a replacement for it.
Why fatigue occurs after cardiac arrest
Post-cardiac arrest fatigue is distinct from ordinary tiredness. It can result from the physical trauma of the arrest itself, any period of reduced oxygen to the brain, the emotional impact of the experience, the side effects of medications, and the significant effort required for recovery. It is a genuine medical symptom, not a sign of weakness or lack of effort.
Fatigue may fluctuate — better some days, worse on others — and can be worsened by over-exertion, stress, poor sleep, and cognitive demands. Understanding this pattern is the first step towards managing it effectively.
Practical strategies
Effective fatigue management typically involves pacing — breaking activity into manageable chunks and building in planned rest before fatigue sets in, rather than pushing through until exhaustion. It also involves prioritising, communicating your needs to those around you, and working with your clinical team to address any underlying contributory factors.
Further information is also available on our Fatigue page, which covers the evidence base in more detail and includes contributions from survivors about their own experiences of managing fatigue.
Download the leaflet
This leaflet is available as a free PDF download. It is designed to be read on screen or printed, and can be shared with family members, carers, and healthcare professionals.