Leukemia is a type of cancer which begins in the blood cells. It typically starts in the bone marrow - the soft inner part of the bones where new blood cells are created. In Leukemia, bone marrow produces abnormal white blood cells that aren't fully formed and dysfunctional. These cells, usually known as Leukemia cells, develop quicker compared to regular cells and do not stop growing when they ought to.
These abnormal cells crowd out the healthy blood cells. This makes it hard for your body to do normal jobs like fight off infections, carry oxygen, and control bleeding. Since these Leukemia cells can spread throughout your body, symptoms may vary and get worse over time.
Leukemia is classified in several different ways: some forms develop rapidly (Acute Leukemia) while others develop slowly (Chronic Leukemia). The type depends on the kind of blood cell that turns cancerous. Leukemia treatment can vary widely but generally includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy or targeted drug therapy to eliminate the cancer cells.
It is important to understand and avail the right treatment for Leukemia. In case you or someone you know has symptoms like frequent infections, easy bruising or fatigue, see a doctor immediately.
Leukemia is a serious blood cancer which happens when there are changes in the DNA of blood cells in the bone marrow. These changes cause the cells to grow abnormally, leading to an accumulation of dysfunctional cells. Understanding the causes of these changes might help with early detection and prevention.
These are certain risk factors and causes of Leukemia:
Genetic Predisposition: Some genetic anomalies like Down syndrome or other inherited disorders make Leukemia more likely.
Radiation Exposure: High levels of radiation from medical treatments or environmental exposure can damage the DNA of blood cells and cause Leukemia. This includes past radiation treatments for cancers.
Chemical Exposure: The regular ingestion of certain chemicals, like benzene (found in gasoline and in the chemical industry) and formaldehyde is associated with increased risk of Leukemia.
Previous Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation therapies for other kinds of cancer may damage bone marrow cells and cause Leukemia, even years after treatment.
Smoking: Tobacco consumption is a major risk factor, particularly for Acute Myeloid Leukemia or AML since it exposes the entire body to several chemical substances which are known to result in DNA mutations.
Family History: Having a family member with Leukemia could also raise your risk, but most Leukemias aren't hereditary.
Leukemia generally shows subtle signs that may not alarm you. Still, identification of the symptoms early is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
The following are signs and symptoms of Leukemia:
Unusual tiredness or general weakness that does not improve with rest may indicate Leukemia. This happens because Leukemia cells crowd out red blood cells that circulate oxygen throughout the body.
More frequent infections or trouble recovering from minor bugs may indicate low numbers of healthy white blood cells to fight off infections.
These symptoms can occur without any cause and might include chills or flu-like symptoms
As Leukemia affects the blood's clotting cells (platelets), patients may experience spontaneous bruising, excessive bleeding from small cuts or frequent nosebleeds.
The accumulation of abnormal cells in these areas may result in bone pain or joint discomfort.
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, stomach or pelvic area may be tender to the touch and reflect lymphatic changes from Leukemia.
As a result of fewer red blood cells than normal, the skin appears to be pale.
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath during normal activities may be caused by anaemia or by Leukemia cells accumulating in the chest.
Leukemia cells may collect in the liver and spleen and enlarge these organs, causing a feeling of fullness, discomfort or swelling in the belly.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Leukemia using evidence-based Ayurveda. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: Scientifically-formulated mixtures that help restore balance in the body and maintain emotional stability.
Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness: These calming practices promote your mental health and overall wellness.
Ayurvedic Therapies: Therapies like Panchakarma, Shirodhara, Abhyanga etc are included in treatment to purify the body and help balance emotional health.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Expert recommendations from Jiva certoified doctors on modifying your diet and lifestyle to achieve better health.
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine in India which includes herbal cures for balancing the body’s energies and improving health. In cases of serious health conditions like Leukemia, where the blood-forming tissues are deficient, certain specific Ayurvedic medicines are used that concentrates on purifying the blood and strengthening immunity. The following are some recommended Ayurvedic herbs and compounds noted to help manage Leukemia:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha reduces oxidative stress and boosts immunity, which is useful in battling Leukemia.
Guggul: This is an antioxidant herb which helps in purifying the blood. It also helps in maintaining cell health and is used in Ayurveda for diseases like Leukemia.
Turmeric (Curcumin): The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities which helps defend the body from cancer cells.
Tulsi (Holy Basil): Another important antioxidant is tulsi which reduces stress and increases the efficiency of using oxygen in Leukemia patients.
Kanchnaar Guggul: This herbal mixture balances the three doshas and is used in Ayurvedic therapy for cancers such as Leukemia.
Triphala: Triphala is a mix of 3 fruits which cleanses the body and it is a staple of Ayurvedic treatment. It detoxifies the liver and blood and strengthens immunity.
Aloe Vera: Often used for its soothing and healing abilities, aloe vera helps boost the immune response and detoxify the body to support better health during Leukemia treatment.
Leukemia can affect all age groups; however, many types such as Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia happen more often in kids while others such as Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, typically affect adults over 59.
While a healthy lifestyle can't prevent Leukemia entirely, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and reducing exposure to toxic chemicals can reduce the risk of this condition.
Leukemia cases are rarely hereditary, but having a family history of Leukemia slightly increases your risk. If you have concerns, genetic testing is advised.
Leukemia can be diagnosed quickly (generally within a couple of days after first blood tests) although based on the type of Leukemia, more thorough tests might be required.
Survival rates vary widely according to Leukemia type, age of the patient, health condition and time of diagnosis.
Leukemia is typically diagnosed through blood tests that show abnormal amounts of red or white blood cells or platelets, followed by bone marrow biopsies.
The first steps include confirmation of diagnosis, determination of Leukemia type and discussion of treatment options to begin a suitable treatment plan.
Ayurveda considers treatment of Leukemia as balancing body energies through herbal medicines, diet and lifestyle changes to strengthen the body's natural defences.
Yes, a number of Ayurvedic remedies could complement conventional remedies like chemotherapy, but it’s important to talk to your doctor before doing so.
Yoga, meditation and certain Ayurvedic diets may help the body heal during Leukemia treatment by improving both physical and psychological health.
Ayurveda suggests avoiding hot, spicy and excessively sour foods to help balance the body’s internal energies and aid the blood purification processes.
