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Coping with fatigue when you have an MPD As MPD patients, there's one thing we all have in common: we feel fatigued. In 2005, the Mayo Clinic (US) conducted a survey of over 1000 people with all types of MPDs. Over 80% of patients reported feeling tired, regardless of age or treatment regime. Dr Ruben Mesa who conducted this study for the Mayo Clinic explains that even young patients - those who don't otherwise exhibit many symptoms of their disorder - feel more fatigue than people who don't have an MPD. Mysteriously, the "MPD fatigue effect" doesn't necessarily correlate with blood counts or age, which shows that there is a lot researchers still don't know about the ways myeloproliferative disorders affect our bodies. Until researchers find better treatments for MPDs, the best approach for coping with fatigue is to take good care of yourself. Keep moving: Research suggests that exercise is an excellent way to fight fatigue. It's helpful to start slowly and build up over a long period of time, for instance by walking a short distance each day. Check with your GP and haematologist first before making any changes to your regime. (To learn more please read: Fight fatigue with exercise) Eat right: Eat a balanced diet, maintain a normal weight, and choose foods that are nutritious, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water and be careful not to avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine from tea, coffee or colas. Work around anaemia: If you suffer from anaemia and feel weak or unwell, it's especially important to keep your blood moving and focus on a nutritious diet. Check to make sure you are eating enough protein, fruits and vegetables. Ask your GP or haematologist for advice on gentle exercise that will help you maintain your muscle tone and circulation. It can be difficult to regain muscle tone once lost, so concentrate on moving at least a tiny bit each day. Be selective: Focus on the activities that are most important to you, and don't try to do everything. Get help with daily activities if possible. Plan time to rest. Let your friends and family know that you may need to reserve your energy. Sexuality: You make it through work, and through your daily chores...but when just surviving takes a toll, patients can find they don’t have the energy for a fulfilling sex life. This can affect your relationship with your partner and your sense of self. Intimacy is important part of life, and you can still enjoy it: the Cancerbackup charity offers a great resource with detailed advice on relationships, communication and sexuality. Click below for more information |
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