Being told you have chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) can be scary, and you may have many questions. But you have people on your health care team to help.
Coping with fear
It's normal to feel afraid. Learning about your leukemia and about the treatment options you have can make you feel less afraid. It also helps you work with your health care team and make the best choices for your treatment. You can also ask to speak with a counselor.
Working with your health care team
Your health care team might include:
- Hematologist/oncologist. This doctor specializes in treating cancer of the blood, including leukemia.
- Bone marrow transplantation specialist. This doctor specializes in treating cancer with bone marrow and stem cell transplants.
You might have other types of doctors, nurses, and health care professionals on your team as well. They will answer any questions you may have. They'll help you through each of the steps you'll take before, during, and after treatment. Your team will let you know what tests you need and the results of those tests. They'll guide you in making treatment decisions and help prepare you and your loved ones for what's ahead.
Learning about treatment options
To decide the best course of treatment for you, your health care team needs to know as much as they can about your leukemia. This may involve getting some tests and working with more than one doctor.
You should have time to talk with your doctor about your treatment choices, get a second opinion if you want, decide about treatment, and prepare yourself and your loved ones for what's ahead.
Getting support
Coping with cancer can be very stressful. Talk with your health care team about seeing a counselor. They can refer you to someone who can help. You can also join a support group in person or online to talk with other people coping with your type of leukemia. Ask your health care team about local or virtual support groups.
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