Leukemia Symptoms
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Understanding Leukemia Symptoms
Leukemia is a type of cancer that starts in the developing blood cells (stem cells) within the bone marrow. Our blood is a composite of many types of cells that serve different functions. White blood cells, including lymphocytes, are part of the body's immune response and help ward off infections. The red blood cells circulate oxygen throughout the body and platelets help the blood to clot when we get cut and start to bleed.
As the cancerous cells build up in the marrow, the functional white blood cells, red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets are crowded out. The shortage of blood cells affects our body's ability to protect against disease, transport oxygen and stop bleeding.
The different types of leukemia may affect these functions in different ways, but there are some general symptoms that different types of leukemia have in common. Many of these symptoms are non-specific and are likely caused by something other than leukemia.
Symptoms of Leukemia
General symptoms of leukemia include:
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Decreased Appetite
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Bone pain
Other Potential Symptoms of Leukemia
The following conditions sometimes coincide with the presence of leukemia:
- Anemia - A lack of hemoglobin compromises the red blood cells ability to bind to oxygen. A reduction in the overall number of mature red blood cells, which may result from leukemia, also decreases the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. This may contribute to a sense of weakness, fatigue or shortness of breath.
- Leukopenia - A decrease in the production of functional leukocytes (white blood cells) weakens the body's immune defense. This condition may make someone more prone to infection.
- Thrombocytopenia - A shortage of bloods platelets may lead to increased bruising, bleeding or nose bleeds. Certain types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) may cause bleeding gums.
- Swollen lymph nodes - In some cases, leukemia may spread to the lymph nodes. Noticeable swelling may occur if the affected lymph node clusters are in the neck, armpit or groin.
- Enlarged liver or spleen - The build-up of abnormal blood cells in the liver or spleen may cause a feeling of fullness (loss of appetite) or swelling in the abdomen.
Many people often do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of certain types of leukemia or the symptoms develop slowly. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) progress much faster and symptoms may worsen more quickly than the chronic leukemias (CML and CLL).
Night sweats, fever, fatigue and achiness may resemble flu-like symptoms. If you have the flu, symptoms will likely subside as you get better. Make an appointment to see your doctor if the symptoms persist longer than expected.
NOTE: These symptoms may be attributed to a number of conditions other than cancer. It is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.
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