How can you cope with low blood cell counts?

Take steps to keep your body healthy when you have low blood cell counts. For example:

• Eat a balanced diet. Your body needs all the vitamins and nutrients it can get to heal itself during and after your treatment. Choose plenty of fruits and vegetables. If treatment complications make eating difficult — for example, if you experience nausea and vomiting or mouth sores — experiment to find foods you can tolerate.
• Avoid injury. Many everyday activities put you at risk of cuts and scrapes. A low platelet count makes even minor abrasions serious. A low white blood cell count can turn a small cut into a starting point for a serious infection. Use an electric shaver rather than a razor to avoid nicks. Ask someone else to cut up food in the kitchen. Be gentle when brushing your teeth and blowing your nose.
• Avoid germs. Avoid unnecessary exposure to germs when you can. Wash your hands frequently or use a liquid hand sanitizer. Avoid people who are sick and stay away from crowds. Have someone else clean the litter box, bird cage or fish tank. Don't eat raw meat or eggs.

Talk to your health care team about other ways you can cope with low blood cell counts.