What are common side effects of chronic myelogenous leukemia treatments?

Jumo Health

Treatments for chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), also called chronic myeloid leukemia, can have unwanted reactions called side effects. Although they may be different depending on the treatment, possible side effects include:

nausea
vomiting
tiredness
hair loss
diarrhea
risk of infection
swelling of the hands and feet
mouth sores
problems with blood clotting

These are not all the possible side effects. Doctors and nurses will explain what side effects a person might experience from treatment.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Leukemia

You may be surprised to find that leukemia isnt just one type of cancer but actually a category of multiple cancers that affect our blood cells. Both children and adults can be diagnosed with these cancers, which cause our bone marrow to produce abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells, called leukemic cells, can accumulate in the bone marrow and blood, crowding out any healthy white blood cells. The white blood cells exist to fight infection and disease. The leukemic cells also harm our platelets, which protects us from bleeding out, and the red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout our bodies. Leukemia can progress either rapidly (acutely) or slowly (chronically). Depending on its progression and the type of cell it affects, a leukemia diagnosis can fall into four broad categories. Regardless of the type, infection, anemia and bleeding are common effects of this cancer.

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