Understanding Leukemia

Cancers are named for the place in the body where the cancer starts, even if the cancer spreads to other parts of the body. For example, types of cancer include breast cancer, bladder cancer, cervical cancer, skin cancer, and prostate cancer, to name a few. The type of cancer will determine what kind of treatment oncologists at Regional Cancer Care use. With leukemia, the cancer does not start in one part of the body, but flows throughout because it is a cancer of the blood. In a healthy body, blood cells are made in the marrow, which is the spongy center inside of bones. Blood cells begin as stem cells, which become red cells, white cells and platelets in the marrow that enter the blood. Red cells carry oxygen to the body, and white cells fight infection in the body. Types of leukemia All types of leukemia affect the white blood cells, which are intended to fight infection in the body. Acute myeloid leukemia is the most common type of acute leukemia. The body makes blood cells that do not fully mature and cannot stop infections. Chronic myeloid leukemia is similar to the acute form except it grows slower. Acute lymphocytic leukemia happens when healthy white blood cells are replaced by abnormal blood cells, which typically occurs in children under the age of 15. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia grows slower than its acute type, taking years to even show symptoms. Symptoms of leukemia It is important to get a annual physical exam, because sometimes doctors can detect problems in a blood test even before symptoms arise. However, depending on the progression of the cancer, leukemia can cause people to bleed easily, because white blood cells do not clot as well. Leukemia patients will also bruise more easily and heal more slowly. Fever and chills can compare to flu-like symptoms in leukemia patients, as they are suffering from more frequent infections, since their white blood cells are not functioning properly. Anemia is another sign of leukemia, since healthy red blood cells are outnumbered. Therefore, a body under the stress of leukemia is not getting enough oxygen. Different treatments Since leukemia is found in a person’s blood supply, chances are it has already spread throughout the body by the time it is diagnosed. Options for treatment include chemotherapy, biological therapy, using medical drugs, attacking the cancer with radiation, or stem cell replacement. Typically, acute leukemias are faster-acting and require chemotherapy, which weakens the cancer with anticancer drugs. CBD oil for cancer can reduce the amount of chemotherapy needed, which can help lessen the side of effects of chemotherapy, such as severe pain, nerve damage, nausea and more. Chronic leukemias may be treated in the other ways. If you, or someone you know, has the disease, talk to your doctor about what options are best to help. Your doctor will also have information about support groups to help you learn even more. Find a trustworthy support group and cancer care network that will make sure your care is second to none.