As you try to maintain consistent wellness, it is imperative that you navigate the Patient Journey Roadmap by making five key stops to living the best life possible.
Having a chronic illness such as sickle cell disease means understanding all the ways you must take control of your life and not let the disease take control of you.
For sickle cell patients, managing your pain crisis is the number one priority.
RELATED: Embracing The New Normal With Sickle Cell Disease
The first stop on the roadmap is:
AWARENESS
A sickle cell patient must understand their condition. They must know all there is to know about the disease and how to manage it.
Understand your pain triggers. Know what foods increase your immunity. Realize the role exercise plays in your treatment and how much you can handle.
READ: 4 Ways To Stay Fit With Sickle Cell
Recognize how much stress you can tolerate. Find the medicine that works best for you. Always be aware of the latest drugs and treatments that come to market and research them to see if it is something you want to try.
For example, Adakveo is a new infusion drug designed specifically for pain management. It is taken once a month and ensures relief from your pain until the next infusion.
FULFILLMENT
Always be curious about your disease. Whenever you have questions, ask your healthcare provider (HCP). When you are scheduled for a visit with your HCP, be ready. Have your questions written down.
If you hear about a new drug or treatment, ask about it. If they don’t know the answer, ask if you can be
