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Exercise
In Polycythemia Vera the normal circulation of blood is very important and activity like walking can improve your blood circulation. Moderate exercise can also help in increasing the blood circulation and it could reduce the chances of blood clotting.
Reduce Salt in your Diet
To maintain the normal flow of blood reduce salt and sodium from your diet, because salt and sodium cause your body to retain fluid, making it more difficult for your blood to circulate.
Stay away from Tobacco
Use of tobacco makes your blood vessels narrow, so already thickened blood find it more difficult to flow. Use of tobacco increases the risk of heart attack or stroke due to blood clots.
Take Care of your Skin
Itching is one of the symptoms of PV. Take cool water shower to reduce itching. Use gentle soap and carefully dry your skin and use moisturize. Try to avoid scratching because it could damage your skin and you can get infection. Avoid hot tubs, heated whirlpools, and hot showers or baths.
Be Careful of your Sores
Due to poor circulation of blood your sores find it very difficult to heal, especially sores on your hands and feet. Be very careful about your sores, monitor it closely, inspect your feet regularly and tell your doctor about any sores.
Cold Weather
Get Protected from the cold properly, wear warm clothing. Take particular care with your hands and feet. Warm gloves, socks, and shoes are very important protection for you.
Keep Away from Extreme Heat
If you are suffering from PV, try to avoid long-standing exposure to Sun. Increase Liquid intake. Keep away from hot tubs, heated whirlpools, or highly heated baths of any type. Be very careful of tanning booths, sun lamps, or heat lamps.
Ongoing Health Care Needs
PV requires regular medical checkups and care. For rest of the life you should very carefully monitor your condition. It is important to see your doctor for any prescribed treatments for your PV. Your doctor will want to monitor your condition closely. This is important so that your doctor can detect any changes in your condition and treat them early, if necessary. Your doctor may need to perform periodic blood tests to determine the course of the disease. If your doctor prescribes medicine, you will need to take it as prescribed.
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