Congratulations on completing your CML treatment! As you transition into life after treatment, it’s normal to have questions and concerns about what comes next. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate this new chapter.
Follow-up Care
After completing your treatment for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), it’s important to continue with regular follow-up care. Your healthcare team will schedule regular check-ups to monitor your health and assess any potential side effects or complications. These appointments are crucial for ensuring that your treatment is successful and that your CML remains under control.
During these check-ups, expect frequent blood tests to check your blood cell counts and monitor your response to treatment. Your doctor may also perform other tests, such as bone marrow biopsies, to assess the effectiveness of your treatment. Based on the results of these tests, your doctor may adjust your treatment plan as needed.
It’s also important to continue taking any medication prescribed by your doctor. Even though you may have completed your initial treatment, you may still need to take medication to manage your CML. It’s important to take your medication as prescribed and discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare team.
Managing Symptoms
After completing your CML treatment, you may experience a range of symptoms as your body continues to recover. Common symptoms include fatigue, nausea, and pain. It’s important to listen to your body and take care of yourself during this time.
Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer treatment and can persist for several weeks or months after treatment ends. To manage fatigue, try to get plenty of rest and conserve your energy. It may also help to eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and engage in light exercise, such as walking or yoga.
Nausea is another common side effect of cancer treatment. Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding spicy or greasy foods can help reduce nausea. Ginger tea or ginger candies may also help ease nausea.
If you experience pain after treatment, talk to your doctor about pain management options. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage your pain or recommend other treatments, such as physical therapy or acupuncture.
Work and Daily Routines
Returning to work after completing your CML treatment is a significant milestone. However, it’s important to approach your return to work gradually and with caution. Talk to your employer about a phased return to work, starting with reduced hours or