How does leukemia affect your life physically?
Leukemia affects the body physically in various ways depending on the type and stage of the disease. Here are some of the common physical effects of leukemia:
1. Bone marrow: Leukemia starts in the bone marrow, which is responsible for producing blood cells. As leukemia cells multiply, they interfere with the production of normal blood cells, leading to anemia (low red blood cell count), neutropenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).
2. Anemia: A decreased number of red blood cells leads to anemia, causing symptoms like fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
3. Bleeding: A deficiency in platelets, responsible for blood clotting, can lead to prolonged bleeding, easy bruising, and a higher risk of bleeding from cuts or injuries.
4. Infections: A low white blood cell count weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Fever, chills, and frequent infections may occur.
5. Splenomegaly or hepatomegaly: Leukemia cells can accumulate in the spleen or liver, causing them to enlarge (splenomegaly or hepatomegaly). This can lead to abdominal discomfort, bloating, and a feeling of fullness.
6. Lymph node swelling: Leukemia cells can infiltrate lymph nodes, causing them to swell and become enlarged. This is often noticeable in the lymph nodes of the neck, armpits, and groin.
7. Bone pain: In some cases, leukemia cells can infiltrate bones and cause pain or tenderness in affected areas.
8. Skin symptoms: Leukemia can cause various skin problems, such as rashes, itching, bruising, or leukemia cutis (skin lesions or tumors caused by leukemia cells).
9. Neurological effects: In certain types of leukemia, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), leukemia cells can infiltrate the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to symptoms like headaches, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and cranial nerve palsies.
10. Fatigue and weight loss: Leukemia can also lead to fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and a general feeling of malaise as the disease progresses.
It's important to note that the specific physical effects of leukemia may vary depending on the individual and can change throughout the course of the disease. Regular monitoring and management with a healthcare team are essential to address these effects and provide appropriate treatment and supportive care.