Here are simple but often overlooked signs that may indicate leukemia (a type of blood cancer). While these symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for minor issues, early detection is critical:

1. Persistent Fatigue or Weakness

• You feel unusually tired even after resting

• Daily activities feel exhausting

• It can be due to the body not producing enough healthy red blood cells

2. Frequent Infections

• Recurrent colds, fevers, or infections that take longer to heal

• Leukemia weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight off germs

3. Unexplained Bruising or Bleeding

• Bruises appear easily, especially in unusual places (e.g., back, hands)

• Bleeding gums or frequent nosebleeds

• This occurs due to low platelet count

4. Pale or Sallow Skin

• A noticeably paler complexion or yellowish tone

• May be caused by anemia linked to leukemia

5. Bone or Joint Pain

• Aching in bones (especially long bones like arms or legs)

• Sharp or persistent joint pain

• Caused by cancerous cells accumulating in the bone marrow

6. Swollen Lymph Nodes

• Painless lumps in the neck, armpits, or groin

• Not caused by infections

• Swollen lymph nodes may signal abnormal white blood cell activity

7. Fever or Night Sweats

• Unexplained fevers (not linked to infections)

• Drenching night sweats without a known cause

• A common early symptom of blood cancers

8. Sudden Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite

• Losing weight without trying

• Feeling full after eating small amounts

9. Shortness of Breath

• Feeling breathless during mild activity

• Often due to anemia or reduced oxygen-carrying capacity

When to See a Doctor

If you experience two or more of these symptoms persistently, especially with no clear cause, it’s best to consult a doctor and ask for a complete blood count (CBC) — often the first test used to detect blood abnormalities related to leukemia.

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