Lifestyle Changes to Manage Leukemia

Quitting Smoking

Smoking is a known risk for many cancers and other health disorders. It can also increase the risk of problems from medical procedures and slow tissue healing.

Quitting smoking helps the body start to repair itself right away. Quitting will help boost the immune system. This helps fight leukemia and improves recovery from treatment.

Reducing the Risk of Infection

Leukemia and its treatments can make it hard to fight infections. Infections may happen more often. Common infections like a cold or the flu may be more severe. The risk of infection may be lowered by:

• Washing hands thoroughly and often—or using hand sanitizer
• Avoiding crowds, especially during cold and flu season
• Not touching the eyes, mouth, and nose—after touching surfaces or objects
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects often
• Getting all vaccines advised by the doctor such as those for the flu and pneumonia

Making Dietary Changes

A healthful diet can help tissue heal and recover. It can also improve mood and overall energy.

Cancer and some cancer treatments can make it hard for people to eat. It is important to eat foods that are high in nutrients. A registered dietitian can help a person manage these challenges. They can also make an effective meal plan.

Exercising Regularly

Cancer and its treatment is stressful to the body and mind. Regular exercise can help by:

• Boosting energy level
• Improving the immune system
• Boosting mood and improving emotional outlook

The doctor can help a person choose a safe exercise program. A personal trainer can help with goal-setting and getting started. It is also important to balance rest and activities to prevent becoming too tired.

Managing Tiredness

Seeking Support

A cancer diagnosis is stressful. People often worry about having a serious disease or how they will feel during treatment. There are also lifestyle changes to consider. Having support from family, friends, and others can help ease stress. Some other sources of support are:

• Religious community
• Support groups for people with the same type of cancer
• Mental health professionals who are trained in cancer support

Family and caregivers may also need support. Support groups or counseling can help them.

Comfort Measures

Leukemia found in advances stages can be harder to treat. Some people choose treatments to ease cancer symptoms. Others choose to stop treatment completely. Depending on the outlook, it may be time to look at end-of-life planning. This may include:

• Choosing home or hospice care
• Money decisions
• Advance directives, which include:
  • Legal issues, like wills
  • Hospital orders for care
  • Power of attorney for health care and money management
• Insurance coverage

Some healthcare and other trained professionals can offer guidance.