by EBSCO Medical Review Board

Leukemia is called acute or chronic based on how fast symptoms appear. Acute leukemia symptoms appear quickly and may prompt a visit to the doctor. Chronic leukemia appears much more slowly. Some people may notice symptoms months or years after it is found. Others may not have symptoms at all. In people without them, leukemia may be found during a routine blood test.

These symptoms do not always mean a person has leukemia. Other, less serious conditions can cause these problems. But, it is important to see the doctor. Finding and treating the cause early will improve the chances for a cure.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the type of blood cells that are affected.

A drop in white blood cells makes it harder for the body to fight infection. It may lead to:

  • Lasting fever (not caused by a health condition)
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Night sweats
  • Minor cuts that heal slowly

A drop in the number of normal red blood cells is called anemia. This lowers the amount of oxygen reaching the body's tissues. This can lead to:

  • Feeling weak and tired
  • Pale skin
  • Headaches

A drop in normal platelets makes it harder for blood to clot. If the blood does not clot, even small injuries can lead to severe bleeding. Problems may include:

  • Bleeding or bruising easily
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bleeding gums
  • Tiny red spots under the skin
  • Heavy monthly periods

Later Stage Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

  • Swollen, tender lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the liver or spleen
  • Puffy gums
  • Rash
  • Less hunger and unplanned weight loss
  • Bone or joint pain
  • Trouble breathing
  • Swelling of the testicles
  • Nervous system problems such as:
    • Headaches
    • Nausea
    • Loss of muscle control
    • Seizures

References

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoblastic lymphoma (ALL/LBL) in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia-lymphoblastic-lymphoma-all-lbl-in-adults. Accessed April 17, 2022.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/acute-myeloid-leukemia-aml. Accessed April 17, 2022.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic leukemia (SLL). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chronic-lymphocytic-leukemia-cll-small-lymphocytic-lymphoma-sll. Accessed April 17, 2022.

Chronic myeloid leukemia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chronic-myeloid-leukemia-cml. Accessed April 17, 2022.

Flanagan B, Keber B, et al. Hematologic conditions: leukocytosis and leukemia. FP Essent. 2019;485:17-23.

Overview of leukemia. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/leukemias/overview-of-leukemia. Accessed April 17, 2022.

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