Fact 3. Spotting ALL Early: Key Symptoms to Recognize
The onset of ALL often resembles common ailments, making early detection a challenge. While fatigue might be brushed off as a result of a busy schedule, it’s a hallmark sign of ALL. The reduced number of red blood cells, or anemia, leads to this overwhelming tiredness.
Bruising and bleeding come into play when platelet counts drop. Platelets assist in blood clotting, so a decline results in easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or even frequent nosebleeds. Some might even notice tiny red spots called petechiae on the skin.
Joint pain is another lesser-known symptom. As leukemia cells accumulate in the joints, it leads to discomfort and even swelling. It’s easy to dismiss it as the aftermath of strenuous activity or growing pains in kids.
Frequent infections or fevers might indicate a compromised immune system. Given that ALL affects white blood cells—our body’s defense mechanism—it’s not surprising that patients become more susceptible to infections. (3)
