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Blood cancer is a complex and serious illness that targets the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic systems. Common forms include leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. For women, the symptoms can often be subtle or confused with other health conditions, leading to delays in diagnosis. Understanding the early signs of blood cancer can be life-saving and help ensure timely treatment.
At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, our dedicated oncology specialists stress the importance of recognising blood cancer symptoms in women as soon as they appear. Below, we outline the ten warning signs that every woman should be aware of, alongside specific symptoms linked to different blood cancers.
Synopsis
10 Crucial Signs
1. Unrelenting Exhaustion
One of the most prevalent early indicators of blood cancer in women is a persistent feeling of extreme tiredness. This fatigue doesn’t ease with sleep or rest and often worsens over time. In diseases like leukaemia, the abnormal growth of white blood cells interferes with red blood cells, which carry oxygen, causing profound exhaustion that might be mistaken for stress or hormonal changes.
2. Frequent Illness or Infections
Blood cancer weakens the immune system, making the body vulnerable to infections that recur or linger. If you find yourself catching colds, flu, or other infections more often than usual, or your illnesses take longer to clear up, these could be signs of leukaemia symptoms in women. Timely medical attention is crucial in such cases.
3. Bruises and Bleeding That Appear Without Cause
Spontaneous bruising, unusual bleeding from gums, nosebleeds, or heavier-than-normal menstrual bleeding may indicate blood clotting problems due to low platelet counts, which are common in leukaemia and multiple myeloma. Don’t dismiss such signs as minor injuries or hormonal fluctuations.
4. Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin, can be an early sign of lymphoma. These lumps are usually painless and may gradually increase in size. Women should seek medical evaluation if they notice persistent swelling in these areas.
5. Sudden, Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexpected weight loss—without dieting or increased physical activity—can be an alarming symptom of blood cancers like lymphoma and leukaemia. Losing more than 10% of your body weight over a few months should prompt a medical review.
6. Night Sweats and Unexplained Fevers
Heavy night sweats that drench bedding and clothes, beyond what might be expected during menopause, can indicate lymphoma symptoms. Accompanying low-grade fevers that occur without infection may also be linked to blood cancers.
7. Persistent Bone or Joint Pain
Aching or sharp pain in the bones or joints, particularly in the back, ribs, or legs, may point towards multiple myeloma or leukaemia. Unlike typical aches or arthritis, this pain is often constant and worsens over time.
8. Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing
Breathlessness during routine activities like walking or climbing stairs may result from anaemia, a common complication in blood cancers. Women experiencing this, especially when combined with fatigue or dizziness, should consult a healthcare provider promptly.
9. Pale or Yellowish Skin
A pale or jaundiced complexion can signal a decrease in red blood cells or other blood abnormalities. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as cold hands, dizziness, or a racing heart. Persistent changes in skin colour warrant medical investigation.
10. Ongoing Back or Rib Pain
While many attribute back pain to posture or muscular strain, persistent pain in the lower back or ribs could be a symptom of multiple myeloma. If the discomfort is severe and does not resolve with typical remedies, it should be assessed by a specialist.
Overview of Blood Cancer Types Affecting Women
Leukaemia
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, characterised by excessive production of abnormal white blood cells. Women affected may experience:
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Severe fatigue
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Frequent infections
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Easy bruising or bleeding
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Fever and chills
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Bone pain
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Weight loss
Lymphoma
Lymphoma develops in the lymphatic system and includes Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin types. Common symptoms include:
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Swollen, painless lymph nodes
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Persistent cough or chest discomfort
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Night sweats
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Fevers
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Fatigue
Multiple Myeloma
This cancer affects plasma cells in the bone marrow and can be asymptomatic initially. Later symptoms may include:
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Bone pain (especially spine and ribs)
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Recurrent infections
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Anaemia
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Elevated calcium levels can cause nausea or confusion
Why It’s Vital for Women to Recognise These Symptoms
Many symptoms of blood cancer in women can be mistaken for less serious issues such as hormonal changes, stress, or ageing. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, affecting outcomes. At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we encourage women to be vigilant and consult specialists when symptoms persist. Our hospital offers advanced diagnostics, including blood tests and biopsies, to detect blood cancers early.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you notice multiple warning signs like persistent fatigue, unexplained bruising, swollen lymph nodes, or unintentional weight loss, it is essential to consult a haematologist or oncologist. Early detection improves treatment success and survival rates.
At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, we provide a comprehensive approach to managing blood cancers — from early diagnosis to personalised treatment and supportive care.
Conclusion
Recognising the early blood cancer symptoms in women can significantly impact treatment success. Whether it’s leukaemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma, understanding these signs ensures timely medical intervention.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t delay—reach out to Manipal Hospital Kharadi for expert care and advanced treatment options.
FAQ's
Early signs include persistent fatigue, frequent infections, unexplained bruising or bleeding, swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, fever, unexplained weight loss, and bone or joint pain. These symptoms can vary depending on the type of blood cancer, such as leukaemia, lymphoma, or multiple myeloma.
Lymph nodes that are swollen, painless, and persist for more than a few weeks should be evaluated by a doctor. Swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin can be a symptom of lymphoma, especially if accompanied by other signs like night sweats or unexplained weight loss.
Most blood cancer symptoms are similar regardless of gender. However, some symptoms, like heavy menstrual bleeding or specific hormonal impacts, can be unique to women. Women should pay special attention to any unusual bleeding or bruising.
If you experience several persistent symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, bruising without injury, or swollen lymph nodes, it’s important to seek advice from a haematologist or oncologist promptly. Early diagnosis improves treatment success.
The most common blood cancers in women include leukaemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Each has distinct symptoms and treatment approaches.
Manipal Hospital Kharadi offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for blood cancers, including advanced testing, personalised treatment plans, and multidisciplinary care led by experienced oncologists and haematologists.
While some risk factors like genetics cannot be changed, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and managing infections can support overall health and potentially lower cancer risk.
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