How Leukemia Works
Leukemia affects the body by disrupting the normal balance of cells in the blood and their ability to do their jobs. Reduced levels of platelets, the cells that cause blood to clot, lead to more frequent bruises and nosebleeds. If the cancerous cells spread to the brain, headaches and nausea can result from tissues around the brain and spinal cord becoming irritated and inflamed. Finally, painful bones can result from the cancerous cells spreading into the bone marrow. Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow which is the soft tissue in the center of most bones. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of your body. When your red blood cell (or hemoglobin) count is low, parts of your body do not get enough oxygen to do their work. This condition is called anemia and can make you feel very tired.
When in supportive care getting treatment, you are more likely to get infections and dental problems. People with leukemia are more likely to catch infections more easily and will receive antibiotics and other drugs. You are advised by the health care team to stay away from large crowds so you don't get sick.
In serious cases patients with leukemia may have to stay in the hospital for a long period of time, going through daily routines of treatment and diagnostics.
Leukemia affects the body by disrupting the normal balance of cells in the blood and their ability to do their jobs. Reduced levels of platelets, the cells that cause blood to clot, lead to more frequent bruises and nosebleeds. If the cancerous cells spread to the brain, headaches and nausea can result from tissues around the brain and spinal cord becoming irritated and inflamed. Finally, painful bones can result from the cancerous cells spreading into the bone marrow. Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow which is the soft tissue in the center of most bones. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of your body. When your red blood cell (or hemoglobin) count is low, parts of your body do not get enough oxygen to do their work. This condition is called anemia and can make you feel very tired.
When in supportive care getting treatment, you are more likely to get infections and dental problems. People with leukemia are more likely to catch infections more easily and will receive antibiotics and other drugs. You are advised by the health care team to stay away from large crowds so you don't get sick.
In serious cases patients with leukemia may have to stay in the hospital for a long period of time, going through daily routines of treatment and diagnostics.