How to Learn About the Leukemia Cancer Diagnosis Process

Individuals with leukemia develop cancerous cells in their bone marrow, which often spreads to the blood. Leukemia is a complex disease with many classifications, and each carries their own distinct diagnosis and treatment process. There are many functions within the body that a doctor must test before a final diagnosis can be made, and early detection is unfortunately quite rare.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet connection
• Computer

Look for Symptoms of Leukemia

1. Learn about the latest risk factors regarding leukemia. Although there are no proven risks as of yet, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is currently conducting several in-depth studies (see Resources below).

2. Notice the symptoms of leukemia in yourself and your loved ones. Severe anemia, light-headedness, frequent nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums could be signs of a problem in your blood.

3. Educate yourself on the other signs of leukemia, brought about when the cells leave the bone marrow and enter other parts of the body. Symptoms here can include seizures, vomiting, blurred vision and trouble keeping one's balance.

Submit to Leukemia Cancer Testing

4. See your doctor if you suspect you are ill. He or she will first test to see if you are anemic, a condition that occurs when you are short of red blood cells.

5. Allow your doctor to test for swelling in any of your organs, especially the spleen and liver.

6. Tell your doctor about any unusual symptoms, including joint or bone pain.

7. Ready yourself for a major shift in your lifestyle should you receive a leukemia diagnosis. Patients normally must follow a strict diet and medical process and the treatments are normally lengthy.

8. Explore the leukemia diagnosis process further at the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Since there are different methods to test for and treat leukemia, don't hesitate to ask about your options. This includes seeking a second opinion, as it is your right to obtain the advice of more than one physician.
• If you receive a leukemia diagnosis, ask your doctor to write down the specific type of leukemia you have, and resources where you can learn the exact details of your disease.
• If you're experiencing signs of depression, visit a psychologist. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis is one of the most difficult endeavors we can face.
• During the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up process, it's critical that you keep all appointments and stay consistent with your doctor visits. Each one is an integral part of the process.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.

[cb4me]

on 4/29/2009 You covered a lot of crucial information here!