[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/recognizing-common-blood-cancer-symptoms\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/recognizing-common-blood-cancer-symptoms\/","headline":"Recognizing Common Blood Cancer Symptoms","name":"Recognizing Common Blood Cancer Symptoms","description":"Recognizing Common Blood Cancer Symptoms March 5, 2024 Malignant hematologic conditions, or blood cancers, are diseases that originate in the blood or blood-forming tissues, such as the red blood cells or bone marrow. While these conditions have some features in common, they also can have quite different signs and symptoms – and different effects on […]","datePublished":"2024-03-05","dateModified":"2025-12-02","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/author\/seo-user\/#Person","name":"Advance SEO","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/author\/seo-user\/","identifier":7,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/25d521bea98e4070937950c92cd06d2b99615947d3d29e3682593c48f0372431?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/25d521bea98e4070937950c92cd06d2b99615947d3d29e3682593c48f0372431?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Regional Cancer Care Associates","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/logo.svg","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/logo.svg","width":506,"height":228}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patient-with-blood-cancer-finding-comfort-with-loved-one.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/patient-with-blood-cancer-finding-comfort-with-loved-one.jpg","height":600,"width":900},"url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/recognizing-common-blood-cancer-symptoms\/","about":["All Cancers"],"wordCount":1433,"articleBody":"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRecognizing Common Blood Cancer Symptoms\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMarch 5, 2024\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMalignant hematologic conditions, or blood cancers, are diseases that originate in the blood or blood-forming tissues, such as the red blood cells or bone marrow. While these conditions have some features in common, they also can have quite different signs and symptoms – and different effects on your body.To help you understand the early warning signs of a blood cancer, Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) discusses the most common symptoms for various malignant hematologic conditions.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTypes of Blood CancerHematologists treat both benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) disorders of the blood and blood-forming tissues. Benign blood disorders include anemia, hemochromatosis, thrombocytopenia, bleeding disorders, and blood clotting disorders. Meanwhile, common malignant blood disorders include:Leukemia Leukemia begins in blood-forming tissues in bone marrow and throughout the lymphatic system. It causes blood cells to grow uncontrollably, affecting healthy blood cells and diminishing the number of red and white blood cells, as well as platelets. Acute and chronic lymphocytic leukemia and acute and chronic myelogenous leukemia are the most common types.Lymphoma Lymphoma is a blood cancer that begins in the white blood cells of the immune system. Types of lymphoma include Hodgkin, non-Hodgkin, high-grade non-Hodgkin, and small lymphocytic lymphoma. Within non-Hodgkin lymphoma, there are two subtypes \u2014 mature B-cell neoplasms and mature T-cell neoplasms.Multiple MyelomaMultiple myeloma develops in the plasma cells of bone marrow. These white blood cells are integral to the body\u2019s efforts to fight infections. Multiple myeloma is characterized by the growth and spread of abnormal plasma cells and may diminish red blood cell counts and damage bones, the kidneys, and the immune system.Myeloid DisordersAlso called white blood cell disorders, myeloid disorders occur when the body produces an unusual amount of white blood cells.Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs)Myeloproliferative neoplasms occur when the body generates too many blood cells. MPNs are often chronic.What Are Common Blood Cancer Symptoms?Each malignant blood disorder is characterized by specific symptoms. Some symptoms, however, are common in many types of blood cancers. These include:Fatigue and Weakness Several blood cancers cause a drop in red blood cell count. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that helps transport oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. If the body does not get enough oxygen, the tissues and muscles lack needed energy, and fatigue and weakness can result. This tiredness persists despite getting adequate sleep. Fatigue and weakness render some people too weary to engage in daily activities, and concurrent headaches and faintness may occur.Fever and ChillsPeople with malignant blood disorders may have frequent episodes of fever. Chills may also be common with hematologic conditions.Night SweatsNight sweats are bouts of excessive sweating that occur while sleeping. Patients may wake up to find their sheets and clothes drenched in sweat and may have trouble sleeping. Individuals with leukemia or lymphoma might experience night sweats.Shortness of BreathShortness of breath is another potential symptom of leukemia. Patients may feel breathless even when sitting or lying down, or feel lightheaded. Shortness of breath may contribute to fatigue and weakness.Unexplained Bleeding and BruisingSome malignant blood disorders cause excessive bleeding and bruising. For example, these symptoms are common in leukemia.Repeated InfectionsLow white blood cell counts impair the immune system\u2019s ability to fight infections. These infections, aside from being more persistent, may also be more severe. Coughing, sore throat, and other flu-like symptoms might occur.Mouth ulcers \u2013 one or more painful sores on the inner lips, gums, tongue, roof of the mouth, or throat \u2013 may occur with leukemia or lymphoma, or due to treatment of those diseases.Rashes and Itchiness Rashes can result from low platelet levels. Two types of rashes frequently caused by blood disorders are petechiae, small red blood spots that appear under the skin because of broken blood vessels, and purpura, purple rashes that develop when blood collects under the skin. Itching or burning might occur with lymphoma, but the reason for this is not fully understood.Loss of AppetiteMany blood cancers can impair appetite. Alternatively, other symptoms of the cancer or its treatment, such as nausea or constipation, can affect appetite.The severity of appetite loss varies; some patients eat more modestly less than before while others do not wish to eat at all. More severe instances of appetite loss may result in cachexia, a \u201cwasting\u201d syndrome marked by loss of skeletal muscle and fat and extreme fatigue.Swelling and LumpsSome blood cancers may cause abnormal white blood cells to accumulate in the lymph glands. Lumps and swelling typically occur on the neck, armpits, and groin areas. These growths may ache at times. Swelling and lumps also might develop inside the body, pressing on organs and causing pain.Unexplained Weight LossBlood cancers may impact the body\u2019s metabolism by decreasing fat and muscle mass. A loss of appetite may also cause weight loss. Weight loss that does not coincide with recent changes in diet and exercise could signal a cancer of the blood \u2013 although this is only one of many potential causes.Bone or Joint PainMalignant blood disorders that originate in the bone marrow may cause damage and discomfort to the bones and joints. Leukemia and myeloma are two conditions where bone and joint pain are common.Similarly, if abnormal blood cells accumulate in the spleen, a person may experience abdominal pain.Other Symptoms of Blood Cancers and DisordersOther signs and symptoms that may signal blood cancer or another hematologic condition include:Chest painCardiac concerns (irregular heartbeat, heart murmur)Constipation, nausea, and vomitingPale or yellowing skinCognitive symptoms (confusion, brain fog)Cold hands and feetBloody gumsBloody urine and stoolOf course, many of these symptoms can arise from a wide variety of conditions. However, they should be brought to the attention of a physician.Comprehensive Treatment for Hematologic Conditions at RCCAThe medical oncologists and hematologists of RCCA offer patients with blood cancers a broad range of cutting-edge, evidence-based  treatments, including:Chemotherapy Chemotherapy involves use of powerful medications to attack and kill cancer cells or prevent them from spreading. When tumors are present, chemotherapy can reduce their size, which may also alleviate pain and other symptoms. Chemotherapy may be administered orally or intravenously.Targeted therapyLike chemotherapy, targeted therapy uses drugs to attack cancer cells or disrupt their function and reproduction. However, these medications specifically affect malignant cells \u2013 typically by binding to receptors on their surface — while leaving healthy cells intact.Immunotherapy Immunotherapy enhances the immune system to empower it to attack cancer cells. Types of immunotherapy include vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, T-cell therapy, and checkpoint inhibitors.Infusion TherapyInfusion therapy occurs when patients receive medication intravenously. Various therapies involve infusion therapy, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.Blood and Marrow TransplantationBlood and marrow transplantation involves injecting new white or red blood cells or platelets into the bloodstream to replace lost stem cells in the bone marrow. Stem-cell transplantation may complement other treatments.Radiation TherapyRadiation therapy uses powerful, high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or impede their growth.Clinical TrialsRCCA offers clinical trials for several blood disorders, including leukemia and multiple myeloma.Find Compassionate Care for Blood Disorders at RCCARCCA has 22 community-based locations throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, D.C., area.RCCA oncologists and hematologists see more than 26,000 new patients each year and provide care to more than 245,000 established patients, collaborating closely with their patients\u2019 other physicians.Contact RCCA to learn more about blood cancer symptoms and treatment for benign and malignant blood disorders, or request an appointment at a nearby location.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\twe are here for you\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFor more information or to schedule an appointment, call 844-346-7222. You can also schedule an appointment by calling the\u00a0RCCA location\u00a0nearest you.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\trequest an appointment\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRELATED ARTICLES\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCutting Your Cancer Risk: RCCA Oncologists Discuss 4 Lesser-Known Steps\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYou don\u2019t smoke. You drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. You avoid processed meats and you dab on the sunscreen before you hit the\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat to Expect During a Lung Bronchoscopy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBronchoscopy is an invaluable tool that allows physicians to examine the inside of the lungs without surgery, enabling them to detect and diagnose lung cancer.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGetting Your First Mammogram on Schedule Really Matters: 2 RCCA Oncologists Explain Why\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThere are many reasons women don\u2019t obtain their first mammogram at the recommended age: work commitments and other demands on their time, uncertainty regarding when\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRegional Cancer Care Associates is one of fewer than 200 medical practices in the country selected to participate in the Oncology Care Model (OCM); a recent Medicare initiative aimed at improving care coordination and access to and quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries undergoing chemotherapy treatment.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t"},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"News","item":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Recognizing Common Blood Cancer Symptoms","item":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/recognizing-common-blood-cancer-symptoms\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]