Noticing symptoms
Cancers and other diseases can cause symptoms. These are changes in your body that you notice. Examples of symptoms are having a cough, a pain or a lump.
Symptoms can be caused by many illnesses, not just cancer, but it is always best to have them checked out by a GP.
What you need to know
Symptoms of chronic leukaemia
Often people have no symptoms, and find out they have chronic leukaemia after having a blood test that shows specific abnormalities.
When symptoms are present, they are often vague and can include:
- enlarged lymph nodes or lumps in the neck, armpit or groin area
- tiredness
- frequent infections
- easy bruising and bleeding e.g. nose and gum bleeds
- night sweats
- feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- unexplained weight loss.
These symptoms can be caused by other illnesses. However, it is always best to let your doctor know about any symptoms you have.
Other resources we recommend
Use the following links to find out more about this topic.
Signs and symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/chronic-lymphocytic-leukaemia/symptoms/
Signs and symptoms of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
https://www.cancercouncil.com.au/chronic-myeloid-leukaemia/symptoms/
Symptoms, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/chronic-lymphocytic-leukaemia-cll/symptoms
Symptoms, chronic myeloid leukaemia
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/chronic-myeloid-leukaemia-cml/symptoms
Next steps
What to do if you have symptoms
If you have symptoms that you are worried about, even if they seem minor, you should go to see a GP. Don't be embarrassed to bring up your concerns.
Remember, cancers that are found earlier can be easier to treat.
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Cancer Council Mon-Fri 9am-5pm13 11 20
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Leukaemia Foundation1800 620 420