Taylor Edwards

What is Leukemia? Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that begins in the bone marrow. The bone marrow starts making abnormal white blood cells which overthrow the normal white blood cells along with red blood cells and platelets. All of the normal cells can no longer function correctly.

Types There are two types of Leukemia: Chronic and Acute. Chronic leukemia happens when the normal blood cells can still work but not completely. There may not be apparent symptoms at first but things can get worse as the abnormal cells build up. Acute leukemia happens when the normal cells can no longer function correctly at all. The abnormal cells grow rapidly and get worse faster.

Symptoms Patients with chronic leukemia may not experience symptoms. The most common symptoms are: Swollen lymph nodes in the neck or armpit Fevers or night sweats Frequent infections Feeling weak or tired Bleeding and bruising easily Swelling/discomfort in the abdomen from swollen spleen or liver Weight loss Pain in bones or joints

How is it detected? There are different tests to detect Leukemia depending on what kind you have. You can have a physical exam, blood test or a biopsy. Some test can be performed by the doctor such as cytogenetics, spinal tap or a chest x-ray.

Medications and treatments There are many treatments for patients, but once again it depends on what type of leukemia you have. It also depends on the features of the cancer, your health, age and if the cells were found in your CSF. The most common treatments are: Watchful waiting- used for chronic patients. Chemotherapy Targeted therapy Biological therapy Radiation therapy Stem cell transplant

Diets It is important for leukemia patients to have a diet that will lower risks of infections and strengthen their body. A good diet will include lean proteins, milk products, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains and some fats. All of the foods need to be cleaned off very well and the cooked items need to stay separate from uncooked to prevent contamination.

Citations Leukemia.aspx?gclid=COabksGh6rkCFcmf4AodYBQAiA Leukemia.aspx?gclid=COabksGh6rkCFcmf4AodYBQAiA lymphoblastic-leukemia/ lymphoblastic-leukemia/