This archive report was first published on 19 September 2019.
Leukemia: A Blood-Based Cancer ¶
Published on September 19, 2019, by the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 387,000 people in the U.S. were living with a form of leukemia in 2014.
Leukemia occurs when bone marrow cells start dividing and multiplying at a rapid pace, severely limiting the body's ability to produce red and white blood cells. The disease can be chronic or acute, with chronic leukemias being more common and typically manageable with observation or chemotherapy.
However, acute leukemias are aggressive and can exhibit extreme symptoms before they're diagnosed. If you're experiencing any leukemia symptoms, it's best to play it safe and get to the doctor immediately.
7 Sneaky Signs Of Leukemia ¶
Paleness ¶
When someone develops acute leukemia, the cancer cells in their bone marrow divide so rapidly that the body has little chance to produce other components that make up our blood, such as red blood cells. This can result in a complexion several shades lighter than your usual skin tone.
Fatigue ¶
One of the hallmark symptoms of acute leukemias is fatigue. Cancer-related fatigue isn't yet completely understood, but it's possible that cancer alters hormone levels in the body while also producing toxic substances that interfere with energy levels.
Bruising Easily ¶
Rapidly dividing cancer cells also damage blood vessels and push out platelets, which are necessary for clotting blood. When blood can't clot, bruising appears.
Excessive Bleeding ¶
A lack of platelets can result in unusual or excessive bleeding. Some people may experience sudden bleeding from their gums or nosebleeds; others might notice that a routine paper cut takes a lot longer to properly heal.
Heart Palpitations ¶
Leukemia can cause heart palpitations after even mild exertion. Your heart is having to work twice as hard to make up for the lack of red blood cells.
Constant Sickness ¶
Someone with leukemia may start getting frequently sick, or have sicknesses that last far longer than normal. Bone marrow cells also inhibit the formation of white blood cells, which fight infection.
Night Sweats ¶
Leukemia can cause night sweats, but doctors don't know exactly why. Some experts say it may be related to hormones; others, a substance that your blood cells release in order to fight the cancer.
