Leukemia is a condition that affects the blood-forming tissues of the body, including the bone marrow and lymphatic system. In its early stages, some of the signs can resemble those of common viral infections, which may make them difficult to recognize. There are both chronic and acute types of leukemia, each developing at a different pace and with varying effects on blood cells. General symptoms may include coughing, chills, fever, night sweats, or fatigue. These signs can be mild at first and gradually become more noticeable as blood production changes over time.
Feeling tired or weak during normal daily activities can occur when the body has fewer healthy blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently. This reduction may limit oxygen circulation throughout the body, leading to persistent tiredness and lower energy levels. Fatigue may appear even after getting enough rest or sleep, and individuals might notice reduced stamina during physical or mental tasks. This kind of exhaustion is one of the most common general symptoms linked to disruptions in blood formation.
Some individuals may notice small red or purple spots on the skin that appear due to minor bleeding under the surface. These spots, which are flat and usually painless, can develop on areas such as the back, arms, or legs. They may appear in small clusters or individually and do not usually cause discomfort. The appearance of these marks can vary in size and color, reflecting small changes in tiny blood vessels close to the skin.
Discomfort in the joints or swelling in certain areas can appear when normal blood production is affected and cells accumulate in bone marrow or tissues. These sensations may vary in intensity, from mild stiffness to a dull ache that comes and goes. The pain does not always occur in the same areas and can shift between different joints or limbs. These symptoms are not specific to any single condition and may be shared with many other health issues that influence the body’s blood or bone systems.
Swelling in lymph nodes—such as those in the neck, armpits, or groin—can be another general sign of changes in the body’s blood system. Lymph nodes are part of the immune network that helps filter unwanted substances from the body. When these nodes become enlarged, they may feel tender or firm to the touch, though not always painful. Such swelling can also occur with other infections or immune responses and may fluctuate in size depending on the body’s condition.
Some people may notice easy bruising or bleeding, which can happen when the body produces fewer platelets responsible for helping the blood to clot. Minor injuries may lead to bruises that appear more prominently or last longer than usual. Occasional nosebleeds or bleeding gums might also occur. These signs are not unique to leukemia but may suggest that the clotting process is less effective than normal, reducing the body’s ability to heal small wounds quickly.
Changes such as abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, or nausea may also appear when internal organs are under pressure from altered blood cell production. Some individuals report a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food. These signs can be related to mild swelling of organs like the spleen or liver. The degree of discomfort may vary, and these sensations can also be caused by other digestive or systemic changes unrelated to leukemia.
In some cases, pressure in the chest or breathing difficulties can occur due to changes in internal organs or blood flow. These experiences differ among individuals and may range from mild shortness of breath to a sense of tightness in the chest. Breathing changes can appear gradually and sometimes become more noticeable during physical activity. Such symptoms are not exclusive to blood disorders and may also arise from various respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Learn more about leukemia at National Cancer Institute.