Wellness Strategies

People with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) may face many challenges. The symptoms of MDS, like fatigue, weakness, bleeding and infection, can limit a person’s activities, cause emotional distress and lead to complications.1,2,3

It is important that people with MDS follow excellent wellness practices to help them minimize MDS symptoms and complications and improve their overall health.1

The Aplastic Anemia and MDS International Foundation recommends the following wellness tips for people with MDS:

• Avoid contact with toxic substances that can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
• Avoid medications, vitamins and herbs unless they have been approved and prescribed by a doctor.
• Practice excellent oral care to reduce the risk of infection in the mouth and throat.
• Report all symptoms to a doctor immediately to make sure proper action is taken.
• People with MDS who have anemia should avoid activities that cause chest pain, shortness of breath or an increased heart rate, such as excessive exercise and high altitudes.
• People with MDS who have neutropenia should try to prevent infection by washing their hands, avoiding crowds and staying away from sick people.
• People with MDS who have thrombocytopenia should avoid activities that can cause bruising or bleeding, and they should notify their doctors if they develop persistent pains or headaches.1

There are steps people with MDS can take to be sure they are achieving optimal emotional wellness. People with MDS, and their families, are encouraged to seek support from chronic illness counselors and support groups to help them cope with the challenges of MDS. Additionally, some physicians may prescribe antidepressants to help people with MDS better cope with their disease.1,2

Visit the Treating Myelodysplastic Syndromes section to learn about current treatment options for MDS and latest developments in MDS treatment.