Dad is Full of Aches and Pains – any advice?

[jen06]

My dad was diagonosed with MDS/AML 18 months ago. They think that it may have tranformed to AML around 6 months ago. He was given one course of chemo in order for a BMT but reacted really badly and they decided that he was not a suitable candidate for this. He now has weekly transfusions of blood and platelets and that is it. His platelet count is normally around 5 (very low). He is now covered in red spots (is it petichaie?) and says that his body aches all over. He rarely leaves his bed and is hardly able to walk. The hospital have basically said there is no more they can do for him at this time. Does anyone know of any self help remedies around that may help to make him more comfortable at his time. Would really appreciate any advice – many thanks.

[gemloyear]

Jen, Has your Dad had a BMB recently? AML is dx by the blast count in the bone marrow and the blood. The red spots(purplish) most likely are petecchia due to low platelets. My husband was full of petecchia when first dx with low platelets (thrombocytopenia). Blood clots cause a lot of pain but they are usually isolated to certain areas of the body. You should inform the Dr. as to how much pain he is in. Depending on what is causing his pain, sometimes prednisone helps and or opiates ie.oxycondone,or fenytanol. These are meds that helped my husband in the last years of his life.At least he was made more comfortable.We tried supplements, herbs and vitamins with little results. At this point I doubt that any self help remedies will alleviate the pain.I will pray that the Drs. will help him find some relief and comfort from his pain. By the way my husband signed papers at each Drs. office allowing them to give me information in person and via telephone regarding his current treatment and condition.Very soon your Dad will need you to advocate for him. God Bless.
Take care Ellie

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