Advice #7
When you have CLL, your body may not be able to fight off infection as well as it used to.
Your doctor or nurse can give you advice about protecting yourself against infections.
Stock photo. Posed by model.
Recognizing infections
Learning to recognize the symptoms of an infection is an important part of taking care of yourself. Here are some signs that you might be developing an infection:
- Feeling hot/having a temperature of 38ºC or higher
- Chills/sweats
- Cough, sore throat or being short of breath
- Earache
- Headache
- Stiff or sore neck
- Sores or white coating of your mouth or tongue
- Redness or swelling
- Cloudy urine/blood in your urine, or discomfort when urinating
- Vaginal discharge or irritation
It is very important that you contact your doctor or nurse as soon as you notice any of these symptoms so that they can give you treatment quickly.
Preventing infections
Here are some simple tips to help you prevent infections:
BEFORE | DURING | AFTER |
Preparing food Eating |
Making meals and snacks |
Preparing food Using the toilet Being out in a public place Blowing your nose Sneezing or coughing Touching animals Any contact with household rubbish |
Try to avoid skin cuts or minor injuries.
Keep away from germs – avoid people who you know are unwell and large crowds of people.
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