Feeling weak, tired or generally unwell. In most cases, this is caused by a decreased number of red blood cells in the bloodstream, or anemia. This prevents adequate oxygen being transported to your tissues and muscles, leaving your body feeling fatigued and weak. Frequent Infections. Leukemia cells are not only abnormal or too underdeveloped to help your body fight off infection, they also inhibit the ability of the bone marrow to produce healthy white blood cells. As a result, people affected by leukemia are very prone to developing infections. Common sites of infection include the mouth and throat, skin, lungs, urinary tract or bladder, or the area around the anus. Unexplained Fevers. In some cases, leukemia cells can cause your body to release chemicals that stimulate your brain to raise your body temperature. Fevers can also be caused by an infection. Abnormal Bruising or Excessive Bleeding. The abnormal production of leukemia cells prevents the bone marrow from making adequate numbers of healthy blood cells, such as platelets. Platelets are fragments of cells that clump together and stop or slow bleeding when an injury occurs to a blood vessel. When there are insufficient platelets or thrombocytopenia, bleeding may occur in the form of nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding gums, bruises and tiny red spots under the skin called “petechiae” (pet-eek-ee-eye). Bone and Joint Pain. Bone and joint pain is most common in areas where there is a large amount of bone marrow, such as the pelvis (hips) or breastbone (sternum). This is caused by the crowding of the marrow with excessive numbers of abnormal white blood cells. Enlarged Lymph Nodes. Sometimes, leukemia cells can accumulate in the lymph nodes and cause them to become swollen and tender. Abdominal Discomfort. Abnormal white blood cells can also collect in the liver and spleen causing your abdomen to swell and become uncomfortable. This type of swelling can also decrease your appetite, or make you feel “full” early. Headaches and Other Neurological Complaints. Headaches and other neurologic symptoms such as seizures, dizziness, visual changes and nausea and vomiting may occur when leukemia cells invade the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This type of central nervous system (CNS) involvement is most common in acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). OUCHHHHH :((((((((((( PRAY PRAY PRAY :(
Posted on: Mon, 27 Oct 2014 12:06:32 +0000
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