Blood cancer is one of the most serious health conditions that may occur in people of any age and include leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. It is important to identify the symptoms of blood cancer in time to get treatment and chances of survival. The initial signs of blood cancer are usually overlooked by a large number of individuals who take them as minor signs of health problems. In this article we shall explore the top 10 first signs of blood cancer that must never be disregarded.
1. Persistent Fatigue
One of the initial symptoms of blood cancer can be chronic fatigue that cannot be alleviated by taking a rest. This is because cancer cells disrupt the normal production of blood cells, resulting in anemia.
2. Frequent Infections
Malfunction of the immune system, resulting from impaired production of blood cells, predisposes an individual to frequent infections. It may be a symptom of blood cancer in case infections are frequent.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Weight loss that is sudden and unexplainable with no dietary or activity changes may be an indicator of underlying cancers, including blood cancer symptoms.
4. Night Sweats
Recurring night sweats where clothes or bedding have been soaked are an indication of blood cancer, particularly lymphoma.
5. Easy Bruising and Bleeding
Bone marrow cancer (low platelet count) may result in unexplained bruising, nosebleed, and bleeding gums, which are all essential blood cancer symptoms.
6. Swollen Lymph Nodes
As long as it does not cause pain, a neck, armpit, or groin swelling could be an indication of lymphoma or other forms of blood cancer.
7. Bone and Joint Pain
Persistent pain in the bones or the joints is a common effect of leukemia and multiple myeloma. This is one of the major indications of blood cancer.
8. Shortness of Breath
The abnormal blood cells cause anemia which decreases oxygen supply causing difficulty in breathing. A worrying symptom of blood cancer is shortness of breath.
9. Frequent Fevers
Repeat noninfectious fevers may be caused by fighting cancer cells in the body. This is one of the least considered indications of blood cancer.
10. Pale or Yellow Skin
This is another important blood cancer symptom because anemia and liver involvement can result in apparent paleness or yellowish jaundice skin.
The early detection of the symptoms of blood cancer can be the difference between life and death. In case you have fatigue, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, or odd bleeding, call the doctor immediately. The timely diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes and an increased probability of recovery for patients. Remain alert, update on what is happening, and take care of your health.