What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Leukemia?

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, characterized by the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells. These cells are unable to perform their normal functions, leading to a variety of health issues as they accumulate in the body.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Leukemia

The symptoms of leukemia can vary based on the type and the individual’s overall health. Common signs include:

• Fatigue and Weakness: Caused by a shortage of healthy red blood cells, reducing the body's ability to carry oxygen.
• Fever or Chills: Often linked to infections, as leukemia weakens the immune system.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: The body uses extra energy to fight leukemia cells, leading to weight loss.
• Frequent Infections: Abnormal white blood cells struggle to fight infections, making them more common.
• Easy Bruising or Bleeding: A low platelet count, needed for blood clotting, leads to easier bruising or bleeding.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes, Enlarged Liver or Spleen: Leukemia cells can build up in these organs, causing swelling.
• Bone or Joint Pain: Leukemia cells invading the bone marrow may cause pain.
• Petechiae (Tiny Red Spots): Small hemorrhages under the skin due to decreased platelet levels.

When to Seek Care

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention right away. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve outcomes. Leukemia treatment may involve:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation Therapy
• Stem Cell Transplant
• Targeted Therapy

The treatment plan depends on the type and stage of leukemia, your overall health, and personal preferences. It's crucial to discuss all available options with your healthcare provider to make the best-informed decision.

Explore Side Effect Solutions

If you're experiencing symptoms or side effects from leukemia treatment, visit HealthTree’s Side Effect Solutions tool. Learn what has worked (and what hasn't) for other blood cancer patients in managing symptoms.

Side Effect Solutions

Further Resources

Looking for trustworthy information on AML or CLL? Join our HealthTree community! We offer up-to-date news, interviews with specialists and informative webinars for patients and care partners. Connect with others and learn more at:

• HealthTree for AML
• HealthTree for CLL

Living with CML or ALL? We're working on expanding our support to you soon. Stay tuned!