7 Symptoms of Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of aggressive cancer that attacks the body's bones and blood, usually affecting the white blood cells. White blood cells are the main component of the human immune system, but in people suffering from leukemia, their bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells. These cells do not function as they should, leaving the body open to infection. The causes of this cancer are still largely unknown, however it is believed to develop out of a mutation in DNA which lead to abnormalities in those cells. These abnormalities tell the cells to divide and multiply more rapidly, causing them to crowd out normal, functioning white blood cells, red blood cells, and blood platelets.Leukemia is divided into two types: acute and chronic. In acute leukemia, immature blood cells that do not yet function are dividing and multiplying rapidly. They crowd out the mature cells in the bone marrow, leading to fast development of the cancer. This type of leukemia requires very aggressive treatment. Chronic leukemia can cause there to be either too many or too few blood cells produced. This type of leukemia is less aggressive and develops very slowly over time. It is often not until the later stages that patients will show any symptoms.Here are some of the common symptoms of leukemia:

I. Pain In Bones

Since leukemia largely affects the bone marrow, a deep pain that feels as if it is in the bones is a top symptom. At this point, the bone marrow has been overcrowded with cancerous cells, crowding out the healthy ones. The body cannot function properly this way and it is immensely painful to move. This symptom can also manifest as a persistent joint pain. With bone pain, it is important to see a doctor as soon as it starts. This is one of the later signs of chronic leukemia, and the abnormal cells can form a mass near the spinal chord, creating nerve damage. Usually this symptom will not go unnoticed, as it greatly interferes with the patients everyday life.Next