OMAHA, Neb. -- Researchers are seeking ways to help breast cancer patients overcome extreme fatigue, a common side effect of treatment.

Researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center recently completed a clinical study focused on reducing fatigue in women with breast cancer, Omaha's KETV-TV reported.

"Fatigue is the No. 1 symptom women report as they go through chemotherapy and, even among survivors, fatigue and sleep disturbances are No. 1 and No. 2 among cancer survivors," said Dr. Ann Berger, a UNMC professor of nursing.

Researchers observed 220 participants split into two groups. The first group received a behavioral intervention, meaning tips on improving sleep through better habits like relaxation and exercise.

The second group received a healthy eating intervention.

"The group that received the behavioral intervention, which was designed to improve sleep, did have improved sleep compared to the group that had gotten the healthy eating control," Berger said.

The study took place as the patients were undergoing treatment, meaning many of them were experiencing extreme fatigue. But instead of scheduling another appointment away from home, researchers came to them.

"This was kind of my way of trying to be in touch with somebody beyond my doctors," said Kathy Larsen, a study participant. "I would have this nurse coming to my home every other week seeing how I'm doing, how I'm feeling."

Larsen said she spent many sleepless nights during her breast cancer treatment: "The pain you're feeling will keep you up at night."

Even though sleeping was difficult, Larsen said she thinks it would have been worse if not for the tips she learned from the study, which she said she'll continue using.

"Doing the exercise, I do that every day, and most importantly, at night, I use the relaxation techniques to be able to fall asleep so I'm not so fatigued," she said.

Researchers said Larsen's routine is a good example for other breast cancer patients and survivors.

"The idea of resting all day and delegating all your roles, those days are over. Now, we want you to be more active in the day and get a good night's sleep," Berger said.

UNMC researchers are continuing their fatigue study, saying the next one will be computer-based, with stronger therapy techniques.