UNDERSTANDING SYMPTOMS OF BLOOD CANCER 

Blood Cancer refers to cancers that originate from blood cells and bone marrow. They include leukaemia, lymphoma and melanoma. These cancers develop when immature or mature blood cells become abnormal and multiply uncontrollably. Such blood cells interfere with the body’s ability to fight infections and other illnesses. Blood Cancers develop quickly and can spread to other organs. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to improve outcomes for blood cancer patients. As the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, we offer comprehensive treatment for Blood Cancer. Here are some of the things that everyone must know about this type of cancer. 

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BLOOD CANCER?

Blood Cancers constitute a diverse group of malignancies that originate from blood cells or bone marrow. Here are the major types of blood cancers:

Leukemia – It develops when white blood cells in the bone marrow become cancerous and multiply uncontrollably. The excess white cells do not function properly and crowd out healthy cells. The main types are acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).   

Lymphoma – It is a cancer of the lymphatic system. It occurs when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, grow abnormally and accumulate in lymph nodes or other body organs. Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are the two common types of lymphoma.      

Myeloma –  Also known as multiple myeloma, it affects plasma cells which produce antibodies. In myeloma, malignant plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow causing issues like bone pain, frequent infections and kidney damage.   

Treatment for blood cancers depends on the specific type, stage and other factors. Early diagnosis is critical as blood cancers can progress rapidly. Regular health checkups and awareness of blood cancer symptoms can help lead to earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes.

WHAT ARE THE EARLY SYMPTOMS OF BLOOD CANCER?

Here are the major symptoms of blood cancers explained in detail. Each of these symptoms on their own may not indicate a serious problem. But multiple, persistent or worsening symptoms over time – especially unexplained symptoms- should be evaluated promptly by the Best Oncologist in Pune to rule out potential blood cancers. 

Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and lack of energy are common symptoms of blood cancers, especially in the early stages. This is often due to anaemia or low red blood cell count caused by the disease. Fatigue may not improve with rest.  

Bruising and Bleeding: Unexplained bruising, tiny red spots under the skin (petechiae) or bleeding from the gums, nose or other areas can indicate low platelet counts due to the disease. Platelets help the blood to clot.  

Fever and Infections: Fever, night sweats and frequent infections are symptoms of low white blood cell counts. White blood cells fight infections, so lowered levels can weaken the immune system. 

Weight Loss: Rapid and unexplained weight loss often occurs in blood cancer patients, even without trying to lose weight. The cancer cells may increase metabolism and reduce appetite.  

Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpits, and groin can signal lymphomas that originate in the lymph system. 

Bone Pain: Myeloma grows in the bone marrow and can cause widespread pain in bones like the back, hips and ribs. The cancer cells damage bones and bone marrow.

Abdominal Issues: Enlarged organs like the spleen and liver may press on surrounding organs, causing symptoms like fullness, bloating, discomfort and pain in the upper left abdomen.

Headaches: Headaches are a less common symptom but can occur, especially in patients with nonproliferation neoplasms which involve the overproduction of blood cells.

Drenching Night Sweats: Severe night sweats that soak night clothes and bedding are seen in some types of blood cancer, especially Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The cause of night sweats in cancer patients is not fully understood.  

THE BOTTOM LINE

In conclusion, it is important not to ignore symptoms of potential blood cancers. Seeking timely treatment from the Best Cancer Specialist in Pune can make a big difference in outcomes. 

CONSULT THE BEST ONCOLOGIST IN PUNE Galaxy Care Hospital is a renowned cancer hospital with the best Cancer Specialists in Pune. Our experienced oncologists can accurately diagnose blood cancers based on medical history, blood tests, bone marrow biopsy and other tests. Once diagnosed, patients have access to the latest treatment options like targeted therapies, chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. Therefore, if you have concerning symptoms that persist or worsen over time, do not hesitate to consult a cancer specialist at our hospital. Feel free to book your appointment today!