Lifestyle Considerations
Making the right lifestyle choices is important for people with MDS. These choices involve:
Living Well
Working Together
Taking Control
Living Well
People with MDS find that taking good care of their health and well-being is more important than ever before. Here are some potential dangers and key health issues to keep in mind:
Bleeding
Bleeding, even from small cuts, can be hard to control:
- Be extra careful when using a knife to prepare food
- Consider using an electric shaver instead of shaving with a razor
- Use extra caution when working with sharp tools or gardening equipment
- Contact your doctor if your gums or nose bleed for no reason
Infection
Even minor infections can become serious:
- Ask your doctor about getting an annual flu shot and stay away from situations where you might catch cold or flu; wash your hands thoroughly and often
- Take extra care with cuts and scrapes; clean them thoroughly, use antiseptic, and apply sterile bandages
- Use a soft toothbrush that will not hurt your gums
- Check with your doctor about how to respond to a fever
Medicines
Be sure to tell your doctor all the medicines you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter, and even herbal medicines and supplements.
Dental work
Let your doctor know if you are planning to have dental work done. He or she may want to give you a prescription to protect you from infection.
Healthy diet
Eat a healthful diet. Your doctor or nurse can help you with this. Also, protect yourself from food poisoning by avoiding uncooked or partially cooked foods such as sushi and soft-cooked eggs.
Activity level
To avoid becoming too tired, be sure to balance rest and activities.
- Make a list of the things you need to do, and focus on the most important ones
- Allow others to help you with chores, shopping, and errands
- Plan times throughout the day when you can rest
Working Together
Communication is vital to choosing the best possible medical care and treatment plan. Here are some ways you and your healthcare team can work together during treatment:
Get emotional support
Living with a serious disease like MDS can be difficult. Don't be afraid to lean on your family, friends, and support groups if and when you need to. You may also seek the help of a licensed therapist or counselor.
Taking Control
While it may be true that some things are beyond your control, remember that not everything is. Taking charge wherever possible may help you cope. Here are some examples of ways you can take control:
Learn about MDS
Learn as much as you can about MDS so you can actively take part in your treatment. Use this Web site and talk to other patients and their families.
Get help and support
Your priority must be to take care of yourself and get the right treatment. At times, this can be overwhelming. That's why it is important to allow family and friends to help with household chores, errands, and other daily tasks. It's also a good idea to talk with other patients. Click here to find organizations that can help.
Keep detailed records
Keep track of MDS information in one place. Use a notebook or file to keep track of:
