Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood, typically originating in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced.

This cancer is more prevalent in children and can progress rapidly, significantly impacting overall health. Therefore, recognizing the early warning signs is crucial for timely intervention.

Signs of Leukemia in Children

Leukemia occurs when the body produces an excessive number of abnormal white blood cells. These cells multiply uncontrollably, eventually replacing healthy blood cells.

As a result, the production of functional blood cells is disrupted, leading to deficiencies in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Additionally, leukemia cells can spread to other parts of the body, causing various complications and health concerns.

Some common symptoms of leukemia in children include:

Increased Susceptibility to Illness

Children with leukemia may have an abnormally high number of white blood cells, but these cells do not function properly. As a result, their immune system becomes compromised, making them more prone to infections and frequent illnesses.

Frequent Bruising and Bleeding

A common symptom of leukemia in children is easy bruising and frequent bleeding, such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums. This occurs due to a lack of platelets, which are responsible for blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding.

Persistent Fatigue

Leukemia disrupts the production of red blood cells, which are essential for transporting oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency in red blood cells can cause persistent fatigue and weakness in affected children.

General Discomfort and Frequent Headaches

Younger children may struggle to express how they feel, often complaining of headaches or feeling unwell without being able to pinpoint the cause.

Swelling

Leukemia can cause swelling in different areas, including the abdomen, face, arms, or lymph nodes. This occurs due to the accumulation of abnormal blood cells interfering with normal bodily functions.

Loss of Appetite

A noticeable decrease in appetite is another symptom of leukemia in children, often leading to unintended weight loss.

Bone and Joint Pain

The excessive production of abnormal leukemia cells in the bone marrow can lead to discomfort, causing bone pain or joint stiffness.

In addition to these symptoms, leukemia in children may also be accompanied by anemia, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, skin rashes, vomiting, and seizures.

Detecting leukemia at an early stage significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Because leukemia symptoms can often resemble those of other common illnesses, parents should remain vigilant if symptoms persist or fail to improve despite treatment.

If your child exhibits one or more of these signs, seek medical attention promptly. You can also consult a doctor through the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

Looking for more information about other diseases? Click here!