You may find yourself living with pv for many years before you ever experience any symptoms. This means that you won’t need to start chemotherapy right away but it’s still a good idea to get started with phlebotomy and aspirin therapy. When this occurs you may find yourself worrying or fearing life with a chronic condition – something that can be stressful. While you’ll find your own way of navigating your way through living with this diseases while maintaining your quality of life there are some tips that you may find useful.
Take Your Time
Instead of trying to do everything at once you should focus on staying present in the moment. Pay attention to what’s happening now and how to address it.
Ask for Help
Your family and friends really do want to be there for you. Make sure you tell them specifically how they can support you (e.g. bring you a meal, watch your children, give you a ride, lend you their ear or shoulder).
Seek Out Support
You’ll want to have someone attend your medical appointments and procedures with you. This is important because you’ll want to be able to remember and interpret any information that you’re given at these times.
Take Care of Yourself
Engaging in mind-body activities like yoga and meditation is beneficial to your overall well-being. They’re a great way to reduce your stress levels too.
Do What You Love
You need to take time to do the things you enjoy. It doesn’t matter if this is taking a walk or continuing to go to work every day. While you may have to make some adjustments to compensate for your energy levels and how you’re feeling physically, you can’t overlook the importance of self-care here.
Join a Support Group
Although this is a rare condition you’ll be able to find people who’ve been diagnosed with other types of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Groups like this will provide you with an opportunity to meet other people from whom you can learn, share, compare, and grow. This should make you feel supported and possibly relieve your feelings of isolation and loneliness. It doesn’t matter if you find this support online or in-person as long as you find it.
The Bottom Line
Unfortunately living with pv can take a toll on you both emotionally and physically. Hopefully, these tips will help you navigate the disease with greater ease though.
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