What Are the Symptoms of Acute Myeloid Leukemia?

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) can cause various symptoms depending on the individual and their stage of the disease. Here are some common symptoms:

1. Fatigue: Feeling very tired and weak, especially after physical exertion.

2. Bleeding: Easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or other unusual bleeding that doesn't stop easily.

3. Fever: A high body temperature without any obvious signs of an infection.

4. Infections: Recurrent infections or a weakened immune system that can't fight off infections.

5. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or wheezing.

6. Bone or Joint Pain: Pain or discomfort in bones or joints due to the expansion of bone marrow.

7. Weight Loss and Reduced Appetite: Unexplained weight loss and a lack of appetite.

8. Headaches: Persistent headaches that don't respond to over-the-counter pain medications.

9. Skin Problems: Bleeding or bruising spots, rashes, or tiny red dots (petechiae) on the skin.

10. Splenomegaly/Hepatomegaly: Enlargement of the spleen or liver, which may cause abdominal pain or discomfort.

11. Lymph Node Swelling: Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin.

12. Gum Bleeding: Bleeding gums or inflammation (gingivitis) due to the infiltration of leukemia cells into the gums.

13. Night Sweats: Excessive sweating at night without any apparent cause.

14. Pale Skin: A pale or grayish skin tone due to low red blood cell count (anemia).

15. Bone Pain: Pain in the bones, especially in the back or ribs, caused by the expansion of leukemia cells in the bone marrow.

16. Nausea/Vomiting: Prolonged nausea and vomiting without any digestive issues or food-related causes.

It's important to note that not everyone with AML experiences all of these symptoms. Some people may have only a few symptoms, while others may have more severe symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to see your doctor right away for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.