Leukemia Signs and Symptoms
Leukemia symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and how quickly the disease develops. Some people experience symptoms early, while others may only find out they have leukemia after a routine blood test shows abnormal results. Symptoms often occur because leukemia cells overtake the production of healthy blood cells, interfering with your body’s ability to fight infection, carry oxygen, and stop bleeding.
It’s important to know the signs and symptoms of leukemia so you can make an appointment with your doctor if you notice anything unusual. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes—especially in fast-growing types of leukemia, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
What are the signs and symptoms of leukemia?
Leukemia affects the bone marrow—the soft tissue inside your bones that produces blood cells. As abnormal leukemia cells multiply, they prevent the marrow from making enough healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This disruption leads to many of the symptoms people experience.
The exact symptoms may depend on the type of leukemia (acute vs. chronic, lymphocytic vs. myeloid), but many overlap across types.
Common leukemia symptoms may include:
- Fatigue or general weakness
- Fevers and night sweats
- Frequent infections that are hard to treat
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin (pallor)
- Easy bruising or bleeding (such as frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums)
- Red spots on the skin (petechiae)
- Swollen or tender lymph nodes, especially in the neck, underarms, or groin
- Enlarged spleen or liver, which may feel like fullness or pain in the upper left belly
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Bone or joint pain
- Headaches, blurred vision, or confusion (more common in acute leukemias that affect the brain or spinal cord)
Signs to discuss with your doctor
You should see a doctor if you have any worrying symptoms, including ones that don’t go away or get worse over time. While many of the signs of leukemia can be caused by other conditions, it’s important to see your doctor if you are worried about any new, continuing, or worsening symptoms.
If your doctor notices abnormal blood counts during a routine checkup, they may recommend additional tests. The earlier leukemia is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin.