Most people who develop the disease do not experience any symptoms at all. While the early stages progress slowly, leukemia can cause several problems such as anemia, shortness of breath, and fatigue. A lower white blood cell count is another sign of leukemia. Because the body produces fewer functional red blood cells, the immune system is compromised, making the body more vulnerable to infection.
Some leukemia cancer symptoms can be subtle or difficult to recognize. Early-stage chronic leukemia may have no noticeable symptoms. A physical examination and blood tests are often ordered by your doctor to help make the diagnosis. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be ordered. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor right away. A bone marrow biopsy can also help confirm a diagnosis if the cancer has spread to the bone marrow.
The symptoms of leukemia may be present in any organ affected by the disease. Sometimes, it can affect the central nervous system, such as the brain, causing headaches, loss of muscle control, and seizures. If you have one or more risk factors, you should consult a doctor about your symptoms. A physical examination can only provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment. If you have a history of the disease, a physician can use imaging tests, biopsies, and blood tests to find out if you have the condition.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately. You may want to consider a bone scan. X-rays and MRI scans can reveal the presence of cancer cells. Your physician can also perform a lumbar puncture to check for spinal fluid spread. A spleen biopsy will help determine if your leukemia is affecting your spinal cord. When the disease has spread, your doctor will recommend treatment.
A physical examination is vital. A child with leukemia may appear pale and tired. Symptoms include frequent infections and an increase in the number of blood cells in the body. The child may also have a lumbar puncture to determine if the disease has spread to the spinal cord. A lumbar puncture will allow your doctor to examine your entire body and find any signs of leukemia. In addition to these symptoms, your doctor may also order a bone marrow biopsy.
The first sign of leukemia is an abnormal blood cell count. If you have a low platelet count, you may have an abnormal amount of blood. Having low platelet counts means that your blood cells don’t clot correctly. This may cause you to have a heavy or unusual menstrual period. In addition to these symptoms, you may also have swollen lymph nodes. You might also have an appetite problem.
Your child’s leukemia may also cause a swollen spleen and pain under the left ribs. The patient may experience changes in their mental state, have trouble breathing, and may have a lowered capacity for oxygen. If the patient has chronic leukemia, the symptoms are often not immediately noticeable. A physician will order blood tests, imaging tests, and a bone marrow biopsy to determine the condition of the patient.
