Introduction
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is a serious condition that can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can be similar to those of other illnesses. However, there are some sure signs that you may have leukemia, according to physicians. In this article, we will discuss the common signs and symptoms of leukemia, as well as provide tips on how to reduce your risk of developing the disease. We will also provide some helpful advice on what to eat and what to avoid if you have been diagnosed with leukemia. By understanding the signs and symptoms of leukemia, you can take steps to protect your health and get the treatment you need.
Sure Signs You Have Leukemia, Say Physicians
Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is a serious condition that can be difficult to diagnose, but there are some signs that can indicate that you may have the disease. Here are some of the sure signs that you may have leukemia, according to physicians.
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is one of the most common signs of leukemia. If you have lost a significant amount of weight without making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to talk to your doctor if you have experienced any unexplained weight loss.
2. Fatigue
Fatigue is another common symptom of leukemia. If you are feeling unusually tired or exhausted, even after getting a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing fatigue that is not relieved by rest.
3. Fever
Fever is another symptom of leukemia. If you have a fever that does not go away with over-the-counter medications, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to talk to your doctor if you have a fever that does not go away.
4. Night Sweats
Night sweats are another symptom of leukemia. If you are waking up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing night sweats.
5. Easy Bruising or Bleeding
Easy bruising or bleeding is another symptom of leukemia. If you are noticing that you are bruising or bleeding more easily than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing easy bruising or bleeding.
Eat This, Not That
If you think you may have leukemia, it is important to make sure that you are eating a healthy diet. Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help to keep your body strong and healthy. Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and fried foods, as these can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off infection.
According to the National Cancer Institute, over 60,000 people will be diagnosed with leukemia this year and 24.000 will die. The NCI explains, “There is no standard staging system for leukemia. The disease is described as untreated, in remission, or recurrent,” and while there’s no way to prevent the cancer, there are lifestyle choices like not smoking that help reduce the risk. Read on to learn what experts say about leukemia —and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
The Mayo Clinic says, “Leukemia is cancer of the body’s blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. Many types of leukemia exist. Some forms of leukemia are more common in children. Other forms of leukemia occur mostly in adults. Leukemia usually involves the white blood cells. Your white blood cells are potent infection fighters — they normally grow and divide in an orderly way, as your body needs them. But in people with leukemia, the bone marrow produces an excessive amount of abnormal white blood cells, which don’t function properly.”
The National Cancer Institute says, “Leukemia is cancer that starts in the tissue that forms blood. Most blood cells develop from cells in the bone marrow called stem cells. In a person with leukemia, the bone marrow makes abnormal white blood cells. The abnormal cells are leukemia cells. Unlike normal blood cells, leukemia cells don’t die when they should. They may crowd out normal white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This makes it hard for normal blood cells to do their work. The four main types of leukemia are:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)”
The Cleveland Clinic explains, “Leukemia is often considered a childhood illness. Even though it is one of the most common childhood cancers, the blood disorder cancer actually affects far more adults. According to the National Cancer Institute, leukemia is most frequently diagnosed among people between the ages of 65 and 74 years. The median age at diagnosis is 66. There are treatment options for patients of all ages, include chemotherapy and blood transfusions.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Leukemia symptoms vary, depending on the type of leukemia. Common leukemia signs and symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Persistent fatigue, weakness
- Frequent or severe infections
- Losing weight without trying
- Swollen lymph nodes, enlarged liver or spleen
- Easy bleeding or bruising
- Recurrent nosebleeds
- Tiny red spots in your skin (petechiae)
- Excessive sweating, especially at night
- Bone pain or tenderness”
The Mayo Clinic states, “Factors that may increase your risk of developing some types of leukemia include:
- Previous cancer treatment. People who’ve had certain types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers have an increased risk of developing certain types of leukemia.
- Genetic disorders. Genetic abnormalities seem to play a role in the development of leukemia. Certain genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, are associated with an increased risk of leukemia.
- Exposure to certain chemicals. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene — which is found in gasoline and is used by the chemical industry — is linked to an increased risk of some kinds of leukemia.
- Smoking. Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of acute myelogenous leukemia.
- Family history of leukemia. If members of your family have been diagnosed with leukemia, your risk of the disease may be increased.”
Heather Newgen