How is Leukemia developed and its warning signs

People often confuse leukemia with blood disorder whereas it is a type of blood cancer that is caused due to the rise in the number of white blood cells in the body. Leukemia is common among the types of blood cancer. In case of leukemia the number of white blood cells increases at a faster rate so much so that it crowds out the red blood cells and the platelets that are required in more amounts in the blood. In order to perform various functions of the body and in order to stay healthy the basic concentration of cells in the body must remain the same. 

 In blood the concentration platelets are in the highest amount and it is required to maintain the fluidity of the blood and helps in transportation whereas red blood cells help in transporting oxygen in the entire body. While white blood cells are basically required in order to fight against diseases and infections in the body therefore the amount of white blood cells required by the body is comparatively lower as compared to red blood cells and the platelets. When the amount of white blood cells increases in such cases it causes a lot of destruction in the bodily functions and it starts attacking other cells of the body.

Symptoms of Leukemia

The symptoms of leukemia vary based on the individual, the type of leukemia, and how rapidly it progresses. Common warning signs include:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Infection
• Fever or chills
• Pain in the bones or joints
• Sudden weight loss
• Breathlessness
• Seizures
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swollen spleen
• Night sweats
• Excruciating pain in the body
• Easy bruising
• Easy bleeding

How is Leukemia Developed?

Leukemia begins in the bone marrow, a soft, spongy tissue found inside your bones. This is where your blood cells are made, including:

•     Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These carry oxygen and nutrients to every part of your body.
•     White Blood Cells (WBCs): These are your body’s defense system, fighting off infections.
•     Platelets: They help in clotting your blood and keeping it flowing smoothly.

When leukemia develops, it disrupts this delicate process. Instead of producing healthy blood cells in the right balance, the bone marrow starts creating abnormal white blood cells that multiply uncontrollably. These leukemia cells crowd out healthy red blood cells and platelets, leaving little room for them to grow and function. This imbalance affects how oxygen is transported, weakens your immune system, and interferes with the body’s normal functions.

Over time, these abnormal cells build up in the bone marrow and can spread to other parts of the body, further complicating the situation. This unchecked growth occurs because the normal life cycle of blood cells is disrupted, leading to the development of cancerous cells.

How is Leukemia Treated?

The treatment plan for leukemia depends on the type of leukemia you have, how far it has progressed, and your overall health. Some common treatments include:

• Chemotherapy: Medications are used to destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and eliminate cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific molecules that drive cancer growth.

In more advanced cases, where leukemia has spread extensively, a bone marrow transplant may be suggested as a treatment option.

At Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital and Research Center, we specialize in treating various types of cancer, including leukemia. With advanced treatments and a compassionate approach, we’re here to provide the expert care you need. Reach out to us today for guidance and support.