Contents
What is Leukemia?
Leukemia is a type of cancer of the white blood cells. It starts in the bone marrow, the soft inner part of bones where new blood cells are made. In leukemia, too many white blood cells are made and they don’t work properly. This can affect the body’s ability to fight infections, and can cause anemia.
Symptoms of Leukemia
The symptoms of leukemia vary but the most common are:
- Fatigue – feeling tired and weak all the time
- Fever – feeling unusually hot or cold
- Weight Loss – losing weight without dieting
- Lack of Appetite – not wanting to eat or having a hard time enjoying food
- Bruises and Bleeding – appearing easily, often on the skin and gums
Diagnosis and Treatment of Leukemia
If any of the above symptoms are present, or if you have a family history of leukemia, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor may order labs or imaging, such as an x-ray or CT scan, to figure out what is going on.
If leukemia is diagnosed, it is important to know that there are a variety of treatments available. These treatments can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and bone marrow transplant. Some patients may also receive medications to help boost their immunity, as well as to help relieve symptoms.
What are the benefits of treatment for Leukemia?
Treatment for leukemia can help to control the disease and keep it in remission. Most patients experience improved energy, strength and appetite with the right treatment. With remission, patients may develop a sense of hope and can achieve a better quality of life, even with cancer.
Conclusion
Leukemia is a type of cancer of the white blood cells that can cause a variety of symptoms including fatigue, fever and weight loss. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Treatment for leukemia can help control the disease, letting patients have a better quality of life and improved health.