Leukemia is a set of blood cancers characterized by the abnormal mutation and growth of undifferentiated cells in the bone marrow following which these cells spread to the bloodstream. This disease is diagnosed by blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy. The cause of leukemia is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If detected early, this condition is easier to control and treat.

General symptoms

• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Night sweats
• Fever
• Fatigue

Here are some symptoms and signs based on the different types of leukemia.

Acute myeloid leukemia

• Anemia
  A shortage of healthy red blood cells is a symptom of leukemia. This can be detected by observing the body for the following signs
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Pale skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheadedness
  • Headaches
• Neutropenia
  Neutropenia is the shortage of neutrophils, which are white blood cells that fight infections. This is a common symptom of leukemia and can be discovered when your body is not willing to fight against infections for an extended period.
• Thrombocytopenia
  This is a condition characterized by the shortage of platelets in the blood. This can cause the following:
  • Reddish purple bruises
  • Excess bleeding
  • Severe nosebleeds
  • Bleeding of the gums
  • Heavy menstruation in women.
  • Inability to control bleeding.
• Clots in the knees, which can cause swelling, or clots in the chest that can cause difficulty in breathing.

Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia

• Symptoms caused due to the low number of blood cells include the following
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Dizziness and lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Persistent infections
  • Pale skin
  • Heavy bleeding through cuts, injuries, periods, etc.
• Swelling in the abdomen can occur due to the build-up of leukemia cells in the liver and spleen. This can lead you to feel full even if you’ve only eaten a little.
• If the leukemia cells have spread to the lymph nodes, it can be noticed as lumps under the surface of the skin.
• Build up of these cells in the bones and joints can contribute to bone pain.
• An enlarged thymus can occur due to this condition and can lead to coughing and difficulty in breathing.

Chronic myeloid leukemia

• This is a type of anemia that can cause fatigue and shortness of breath. It can also cause your skin to look pale and reduce blood supply to the various parts of the body.
• Leukopenia, the shortage of white blood cells can increase the risk of developing infections and reduce the possibility of recovering from them.
• Neutropenia, the shortage of neutrophils, increases the chances of developing bacterial infections that are very serious in nature.
• Thrombocytopenia, the lack of platelets, can cause bruises and nosebleeds. It hinders the possibility of clotting and allows you to bleed out more blood at a higher rate.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

• Feeling tired and having chills
• swollen lymph nodes
• Night sweats
• Feeling of fullness due to an enlarged liver or spleen.
• Anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia collectively reduce your body’s healing function and cause excessive bleeding through cuts, periods, childbirth, and injuries. They also cause weakness, fatigue, and headaches.