Symptoms

Main symptoms of chronic myeloid leukaemia

Symptoms of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) are not always obvious and can be similar to other conditions.

You may not have any symptoms in the early stages.

If you do have symptoms, they can include:

• feeling tired or weak
• bleeding or bruising easily or for no reason
• looking more pale than usual - on brown or black skin this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or insides of your eyelids
• getting ill a lot or taking longer than usual to recover from illnesses
• swollen glands, usually in the neck, armpits and groin
• aches and pains in your bones
• loss of appetite or losing weight without trying
• swollen tummy - your tummy may feel painful, uncomfortable or full
• night sweats
• headaches

Less common symptoms include:

• blurred vision
• swollen or painful joints
• painful erections (priapism), or erections that do not go down

See a GP if:

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

Important

Most of these symptoms are common and can be caused by many different conditions.

Having them does not definitely mean you have CML. But it's important to get them checked by a GP.

This is because if they're caused by leukaemia, finding it early may mean it's easier to treat.

What happens at the GP appointment

The GP will usually examine you. This may include checking your skin for bruises, and examining any areas that are swollen or painful.

They may also arrange for a blood test.

They may refer you for more tests or to see a specialist in hospital.

Find out more

Cancer Research UK: seeing your GP when you have symptoms of chronic myeloid leukaemia

If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.