How does leukemia make you ill?
Leukemia causes illness through a complex interplay of multiple factors that disrupt the normal function of the human body. Here's how leukemia affects an individual:
1. Uncontrolled Growth of Abnormal White Blood Cells:
Leukemia is characterized by the production of abnormal white blood cells, which are not fully functional and can multiply uncontrollably. These cancerous white blood cells crowd the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced, and interfere with the production of healthy blood cells.
2. Deficient Blood Function:
a. Anemia: The cancerous cells crowding the bone marrow inhibit the production of red blood cells, leading to anemia. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, and their deficiency results in insufficient oxygen supply to tissues and organs, causing fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
b. Thrombocytopenia: Leukemia can also affect the production of platelets, responsible for blood clotting. Low platelet counts increase the risk of excessive bleeding and bruising.
c. Leukopenia: The cancerous white blood cells often don't function effectively in fighting infection, leading to leukopenia or a decreased number of healthy white blood cells. This weakens the body's immune system and increases susceptibility to infections.
3. Enlarged Spleen and Liver:
Leukemic cells can accumulate in the spleen and liver, causing them to enlarge. This enlargement may cause discomfort in the upper abdomen and can also disrupt the normal functioning of these organs.
4. Bone Pain:
Leukemic cells can infiltrate the bones, causing localized bone pain. This can be particularly common in childhood leukemia and can lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, and bone deformities.
5. Central Nervous System Involvement:
Leukemic cells can occasionally infiltrate the meninges, the protective covering of the brain and spinal cord, causing what is known as central nervous system (CNS) leukemia. This can lead to severe symptoms, including headaches, seizures, vomiting, and neurological problems.
6. Weight Loss and Fatigue:
Leukemia can cause unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue due to the abnormal metabolism of cancerous cells and the body's response to the disease.
7. Fever:
Persistent low-grade fever is common in leukemia as a result of the infection-fighting response of the body to the abnormal white blood cells.
8. Bleeding Tendencies:
The abnormal cells and platelet deficiency can lead to a higher tendency to bleed, even from minor injuries. Prolonged or excessive bleeding may occur from the gums, nose, or during menstruation in women.
9. Infection Risk:
The reduced number of healthy white blood cells increases the risk of developing severe and recurrent infections. People with leukemia may experience frequent episodes of pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or skin infections.
10. Organ Failure:
In advanced cases of leukemia, the accumulation of cancerous cells and the compromised function of bone marrow and other organs can lead to multi-organ failure and potentially life-threatening complications.
It's essential to note that the specific symptoms and severity of illness can vary depending on the type of leukemia, the stage of the disease, and individual responses. Leukemia is a complex and variable disease, and treatment should be sought promptly to manage the condition effectively and improve overall well-being.