The early symptoms of leukemia are as prevalent in children as they are in adults, but leukemia is often caught in children earlier. Adults tend to ignore pain, while children will take any opportunity to bring pain or feelings of illness to the attention of their parents. Leukemia, a cancer of the cells, creates an irregularity in the blood cells. This irregularity takes its toll earlier and harder on some children.
Symptoms to Watch for
If you notice that your child seems to be susceptible to infection, have him checked for leukemia. Leukemia is immune to antibiotics, so if the antibiotics for normal childhood illnesses do not seem to be working, find out why. The white blood cells are defenseless against leukemia, which allows the cancer to spread throughout the body.
You may also notice more bruising and bleeding. While this is a symptom in adult leukemia, children are more susceptible to falling and bruising themselves, or getting cuts and scratches. If your child seems to bruise for reasons that would not ordinarily cause a bruise, or if she does not stop bleeding as quickly as she should, have the child checked.
Aching bones is another early symptom of leukemia. A child may feel pain, but may not be able to pinpoint the pain, because the bones and joints are aching. Leukemia cells deposit themselves under the surface of the bone and inside joints. When a child is ill, including feeling the pain from the aching bones and joints, he may not eat well.
One of the symptoms more prevalent in children is the distention of the abdominal area. The spleen and liver are located in the abdominal area. Sometimes, depending on the type of leukemia and the person, leukemia might enlarge the spleen or liver. If you notice this type of symptom, even if your child does not exhibit other leukemia symptoms, have your child tested for leukemia. Lymph nodes also tend to become enlarged. The affected lymph nodes are usually located in the abdomen or in the chest.
Other early symptoms of leukemia include vomiting, headaches and convulsions, especially in children. Feeling weak and fatigued are signs in both children and adults. Children may also have skin reactions.
 | The exact causes of leukemia remain a mystery that science is working to unlock. While no specific causes are known, there are some things that put a person at a higher risk of developing this disease. |
 | Learn some important facts about leukemia, including symptoms, places to get assistance and statistics on survival rates. |
The warning signs of leukemia vary from person to person, and often mimic other blood illnesses. Learn what to look for and how a diagnosis is made. |
The history of leukemia dates back to the early 19th century, but it would take more than 100 years for doctors to find successful treatments. |
There are four different types of leukemia, each with its own characteristics. |
