Living With Aplastic Anemia
Many people with aplastic anemia can be treated
successfully and some can be cured. Most people are able to resume their normal
activities after treatment. If you are being treated for aplastic anemia, it
may take a long time to get a good response from your treatment. You may need
repeated treatments, or you may need to try several treatments before finding
one that works.
Lifelong followup is needed to make sure the
disorder doesnt return, as well as to check for possible
complications.
Ongoing Health Care Needs
Treatment for aplastic anemia can result in side
effects or complications. Your doctor can talk with you about how to cope with
symptoms of aplastic anemia, side effects of treatment, and complications from
treatment.
Recommended Physical Activity
Your doctor might discuss what type and amount of
physical exercise may be helpful. For example, you may need to avoid activities
that cause chest pain or shortness of breath. You may want to stay away from
activities that could result in injuries and bleeding, such as contact
sports.
Protection From Infection
Your doctor also might discuss ways to reduce your
chance of getting an infection. These ways include staying away from people who
are ill, avoiding crowds, and avoiding certain kinds of foods that could expose
you to bacteria (for example, uncooked food can be a source of bacteria). You
may be advised to wash your hands thoroughly several times throughout the day
and to care for your teeth and gums to reduce the risk of infection in your
mouth or throat.
It is important to know the signs of infection, such
as a fever. Call your doctor at the first sign of an infection.
Support Groups
You or your family members may find it helpful to
know about resources that can give you emotional support as well as helpful
information about aplastic anemia and its treatment. Your doctor or hospital
social worker may have information about counseling and support services. They
also may be able to refer you to major support organizations that offer help
with financial planning, since treatment for aplastic anemia is expensive.
The
Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation, Inc.
offers a variety of services and information, including:
- Emotional support through a toll-free hotline
(8007472820), e-mail, and numerous local support groups
- Educational materials and newsletters, including
some on their Web site
- Questions answered by people with aplastic anemia
and their family members
- Information on clinical trials and financial help
for travel expenses to take part in a clinical trial
- A patient registry
The
National Marrow Donor Program gives information and help to
bone marrow donors and recipients. This includes:
- Information and educational materials on the Web
site
- A toll-free information line
(8889996743) where you can speak with a case manager in the Office
of Patient Advocacy
- A donor registry
- A directory of major medical centers providing
transplant services
- Information on financial planning for bone marrow
transplant
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