Leukemia

You can do things at home to help manage your side effects. If your doctor has given you instructions or medicines to treat these symptoms, be sure to follow them. In general, healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep and exercise may help control your symptoms.

• Reference Home treatment for nausea or vomiting includes watching for and treating early signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth or feeling lightheaded when you stand up. Eating smaller meals may help. A little bit of ginger candy or ginger tea can help too.
• Reference Home treatment for diarrhea includes resting your stomach and being alert for signs of dehydration. Check with your doctor before you use any nonprescription medicines for your diarrhea.
• Reference Home treatment for constipation includes gentle exercise along with drinking enough fluids and eating a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Check with your doctor before you use a laxative for your constipation.

Other problems that can be treated at home include:

• Reference Sleep problems. If you have trouble sleeping, going to bed at a regular time and getting exercise daily are some things that can help.
• Reference Feeling very tired. If you lack energy or become weak easily, try to manage your energy and get extra rest.
• Reference Hair loss. Tips include using a mild shampoo and a soft hairbrush.
• Reference Pain. Home treatment can help you manage pain.

Handling the stress of having cancer

Having cancer can be very stressful. It may feel overwhelming to face the challenges in front of you. Finding new ways of coping with the symptoms of stress may improve your overall quality of life.

These ideas may help:

• Get the support you need. Spend time with people who care about you, and let them help you.
• Take good care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, and Reference eat nourishing foods.
• Talk about your feelings. Find a support group where you can share your experience.
• Try new ways to relax. And do things each day that help you stay calm and relaxed. Reference Stress reduction techniques may help.

Having cancer can change your life in many ways. For support in managing these changes, see the topic Reference Getting Support When You Have Cancer.

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