Blood cancer, also known as hematologic cancer, occurs when your bone marrow produces abnormal blood cells that don’t function properly. These cells overcrowd the healthy ones, disrupting normal blood cell production. Understanding the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and care.Regular check-ups and medical screening allow for early detection of the disease. With multiple treatment options including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation, blood cancers can often be cured or at least put in remission. Early detection and early treatment are essential for good outcomes. It is important to monitor progress and track response to treatment.
Signs and symptoms of blood cancer
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.1. Fatigue and shortness of breath: Feeling weak and tired, even after resting, can be a sign of anemia or low red blood cell count, which is common in blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma.2. Swollen lymph nodes and frequent infections: Enlarged lymph nodes can indicate lymphoma or leukemia. Frequent infections may occur due to a weakened immune system.3. Bone pain and joint pain: Pain in the bones or joints can be a symptom of leukemia or lymphoma, particularly if the cancer has spread to the bones or joints.4. Drenching night sweats and persistent fever: Recurring fevers and night sweats can be indicative of lymphoma or leukemia (types of blood cancer)5. Increased liver or spleen: An increased liver or spleen (hepatosplenomegaly) could indicate blood cancer, particularly leukemia or lymphoma. 6. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without even wanting to lose weight may also be a sign of blood cancer, since cancer cells can contribute to metabolic changes as well as appetite changes. 7. Unusual bruising or bleeding: Bruising easily, bleeding from the gums, or tiny red spots (petechiae) can indicate low platelets and blood clotting problems with blood cancer.Also read | 10 effective exercise for controlling Type 2 Diabetes
