Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells in the body. It is a complex and variable disease, and it is not always easy to determine if someone has leukemia without a medical diagnosis.
The most common symptoms of leukemia are fatigue, loss of appetite, night sweats, fever, weight loss, and anemia. Other less common symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, bone and joint pain, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding. If someone is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, they should seek medical care and be tested for leukemia.
A physical exam and blood tests are the most common ways to diagnose leukemia. During a physical exam, a doctor may feel for swollen lymph nodes and check for signs of anemia. Blood tests can help detect leukemia by measuring the number of white blood cells and their appearance under a microscope. Other tests, such as bone marrow tests or imaging tests, may also be used to confirm a diagnosis.
If someone is diagnosed with leukemia, their doctor will likely recommend a treatment plan that may include chemotherapy, radiation, or other medications. It is important to remember that leukemia is a serious condition and prompt medical attention is essential for the best possible outcome.