Leukemia is a term that refers to various cancers that originate in our blood cells. It affects people across all age groups but is most prevalent in adults over 55 years of age and children under the age of 15. Overall, leukemia is treatable, although certain types of leukemia respond better to treatment than others. However, treatment must start as early as possible, which is why recognizing the early signs of leukemia is so important.
8 Early Warning Signs of Leukemia To Never Ignore, According to Expert
The manic pace of modern life can often make one feel run down. However, if you regularly feel completely exhausted, it may be a symptom of something far more serious. While we may lead a lifestyle that doesn’t offer much time to spare, ignoring leukemia symptoms early on may prove fatal. Every year, there are more than 62,700 new cases of leukemia in the United States and an additional 9,900 new cases in the United Kingdom.[2] Many of these cases were treatable due to the early detection of leukemia symptoms. This is why making your health a priority is essential!
Dizziness
While feeling light-headed after a ride at a fairground or a couple of glasses of wine might not be unusual, feeling dizzy regularly is something you may want to pay attention to. According to Blood Cancer UK, if you notice this symptom occurs regularly, you may need to see your doctor. The reason people with leukemia start to feel dizzy and tired is because the disease prevents their bodies from producing new red blood cells, leading to anemia and lightheadedness. However, unless experienced along with other signs of leukemia, dizziness may also result from a wide range of less sinister illnesses.
Regular Infections
Regularly experiencing infections is another of the most common leukemia symptoms. You should visit your doctor if you have a persistent cold or cough since they could signify a weakened immune system. While the occasional cold is expected, feeling sick for weeks on end is something to keep an eye on. Our bodies rely on white blood cells to fight off illnesses. Because leukemia prevents the bodies of sufferers from producing these cells, they experience far more severe and frequent infections.
Headaches
Headaches are another of those symptoms that could result from numerous sources, such as a night out or even allergies. However, persistent headaches require medical attention, as they could be caused by serious underlying conditions such as brain tumors or leukemia. In the case of those with leukemia, these headaches are caused by blood vessels in the brain being clogged by the influx of white blood cells. [2]
Bruising
In the hustle and bustle of a busy day, we often bump into things without realizing it, only to notice a massive bruise on our leg in the shower that evening. However, if you are constantly finding bruises on your body that you cannot account for, it may be another of those leukemia symptoms we need to keep an eye out for. This is because the platelet cells, which usually prevent your blood from clotting, are affected by leukemia. They cannot effectively plug up any bleeding blood vessels, resulting in bruises. Keeping track of any red or purple spots or rashes caused by bleeding under the skin, as well as blood in your poo, heavy periods, and difficulty with speech and movement, is important, according to Blood Cancer UK. [2]
Bleeding
As mentioned above, these platelet cells play an integral role in maintaining your body’s health and are produced in your bone marrow. In addition to slowing down or preventing bleeding, these cells also aid in the healing of wounds, hence a lack of platelet cells will result in excessive bleeding. Not only is this particularly noticeable during menstruation, but it is even evident in the gums of leukemia sufferers. Frequently bleeding gums are a cause for concern, as are frequent nosebleeds.
Fever
When our bodies are fighting an infection, we often get a fever, and this is no different when you have leukemia. This is because the bodies of leukemia sufferers cannot produce sufficient white blood cells to attack the infections, resulting in a high temperature. This is known as an ‘inflammatory response.’ Night sweats are also often experienced alongside other leukemia symptoms. [2]
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Our lymph nodes are relatively accurate indicators of our body’s health. If the lymph nodes in your armpits, groin, or neck feel swollen, then this is an indication that you have an illness. This illness could perhaps be something less severe, or it could be one of the signs of leukemia that we need to be aware of. If your lymph nodes feel swollen and sore to the touch, it is best to have yourself checked out. Early detection is key, so even if you think it may not be serious, rather be safe than sorry.
Aching Joints
Leukemia cells build up in the bone marrow, often resulting in painful joints. This intermittent pain will typically flare up at various times during the day. Those who suffer from leukemia typically report feeling the worst pain in the bones of the ribs, legs, and arms. Young children often begin to limp or avoid walking altogether to attempt to avoid the pain. Another place people often report experiencing pain is at the point where your spleen and liver are located, underneath your left rib cage.
Bottom Line
While many of these symptoms might be pretty benign on their own, if you are experiencing several of these leukemia symptoms simultaneously, seeking medical attention is advised. Detecting the early signs of leukemia is essential in treating the disease, preventing it from worsening, and, with the best of luck, sending it into remission. [3]