17-02-2023
Unknown Signs And Symptoms Of Blood Cancer

Blood cancer, also known as leukaemia, is a type of cancer that affects the blood cells and the bone marrow, which is soft, spongy tissue in the centre of bones where blood cells are produced. Although some forms of blood cancer can have obvious symptoms, such as fatigue, weight loss, and fever, others can have more subtle symptoms that are easily overlooked.

Here are some of the unknown signs and symptoms of blood cancer that people should be aware of:

  • Bruising and bleeding easily: Blood cancer can affect the normal production of platelets, making the blood more susceptible to bleeding. Bruising and bleeding easily, even from minor injuries, is a common sign of blood cancer.
  • Persistent infections: Blood cancer can also affect the body's ability to fight off infections. People with blood cancer may experience persistent infections that are difficult to treat, such as repeated respiratory infections or persistent skin infections.
  • Anemia: Blood cancer can lead to anemia, a condition in which the body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
  • Bone pain: Blood cancer can spread to the bones, causing pain or discomfort. This pain is often described as a deep, dull ache that doesn't go away and can worsen with physical activity.
  • Swollen lymph nodes: Blood cancer can cause the lymph nodes to enlarge, which can be felt as a lump under the skin. Swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of many types of cancer, including blood cancer.
  • Shortness of breath: Blood cancer can affect the production of red blood cells, which can lead to a shortage of oxygen in the body. This can cause shortness of breath, especially with physical activity.
  • Nausea and vomiting: Blood cancer can affect the digestive system, causing nausea and vomiting, which are symptoms that are often mistaken for other conditions.

These effects may happen as part of the blood cancer or due to complications of the cancer. A quick way to remember the symptoms of blood cancer is the acronym “T.E.S.T”

  • T – Tiredness or fatigue
  • E – Excessive perspiration/sweating
  • S – Sore joints and bones
  • T – Terrible case of unusual bruising or bleeding

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions that are not cancer-related. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is crucial for the effective treatment of blood cancer.

In conclusion, blood cancer can have a range of symptoms that are not always obvious. If you experience any persistent symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention, even if the symptoms seem minor. Your doctor can help you determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide you with the appropriate treatment.<.p>

Doctor
Dr. Satyaranjan Das
Director
Department of Hemato-Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant
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