The treatment process forAML involves two stages: insturment and consolidation. Doctors try to eliminate leukemia cells from the blood.

People undergoing this treatment will be in the hospital. You may feel different at home as you navigate emotional and physical changes.

There are many side effects that can make you vulnerable to infections.

You may feel like the process is isolating. It is ok to have those feelings.

It is easier to manage treatment if you practice self-care. It can give you the strength to support and protect your body.

Here are some self-care tips to help you with your treatment.

AML treatment may affect your food preferences and appetite. The National Cancer Institute offers a guide for managing diet through cancer treatment.

Cancer treatment can affect taste and smell. You may find that things smell different, or that you have a weaker sense of smell. Food might not have much taste at all.

Try to find ways to get the calories, vitamins and minerals you need. When you experience nausea or mouth pain, sauces, gravies, and smoothies may be more enjoyable.

Changing the amount of fiber in your diet can help with the management of irritative changes.

“If you find that you don’t have much appetite, try having smaller, more frequent meals.”

You may want to continue having family meals and eating with others. It can be challenging, but it can be a way to take your mind off of treatment. You may enjoy the social activity and the company of others.

Moderate activity helps relieve fatigue, even though you may not feel like exercising. It can help you maintain strength while you are undergoing cancer therapy.

Ask your doctor for tips on exercising. If you have neutropenia, a shortage of white blood cells, you may want to avoid activity that exposes your body to potential infections.

If you are hesitant about starting a fitness routine, there are some small ways you can incorporate physical activity into your daily life. You can choose to remain active by gardening, cooking, walking, and stairs over the elevator.

Many emotional responses can be triggered by a diagnosis and treatment of the disease. There are many reactions, including shock, anger, fear, loss, sadness, and anxiety. Some people might try to stay positive, but it might seem like an unrealistic burden to others.

The American Cancer Society recommends that people talk about their feelings instead of forcing themselves to always act optimistic. Support groups or counseling can give you a place where your own emotions are respected and honored without judgment.

It may help to know that the relationship between emotions and cancer can be complex. A 2020 study in Brazil found that people with cancer and their caregivers were happier than those not experiencing cancer.

The study found that people with cancer perceived life differently than people without the disease.

If you are experiencing mental health effects due to AML, speak to your healthcare professional. Your doctor may be able to connect you with people in your community.

They may prescribe therapy after cancer treatment. Talk therapy or medication can be used to manage mental health symptoms.

People living with cancer are very stressed out. You can try to manage stress in your life.

Some options might include:

  • Talking about your feelings with people who are not judging you.
  • Writing about your experiences in a journal.
  • Moderate exercises like yoga, tai chi, or walking can be done.
  • You can use therapies like massage or acupuncture with your healthcare team.
  • Bring your attention to the present by practicing meditation and other techniques.

If you are experiencing stress, speak to your doctor. They can help you manage stress during treatment. Sometimes, the simple act of reaching out can provide some relief from stress.

Cancer treatment can cause changes to sleep patterns. Many people experience insomnia due to medication, stress, and time in hospital.

Quality sleep is important for your health. It can help support your immune system and give you clarity of mind.

You can work on your own to get better sleep.

  • Trying relaxation techniques.
  • When you are tired and want to sleep, go to bed only when you are sleepy and turn off electronics before bed.
  • Talking with a therapist about creating the right mental state for sleep.

Your doctor can help you with any sleep problems. If you have cancer, you may be able to get enough rest with the help of medication or talk therapy.

Everyone needs a break during cancer treatment, but the person living with the diagnosis needs a break too.

When you feel well enough to have some downtime, consider a day with loved ones that is free of the illness.

It can be as simple as a movie marathon or a day at the beach where you focus on other aspects of living.

Living with cancer can be tiring. During treatment, eating, sleeping, and living are all possible. Spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress and improve well-being.

It is easier to manage the stages of treatment with self-care. Make a plan for your quality of life during treatment with your doctor.