Blood plays a far more vital and main role than simply keeping us from turning pale. Blood not only delivers oxygen and nutrients to our cells, but also removes waste products and helps regulate body temperature. Without this intricate system, our bodies would not be able to function properly and sustain life. In other words, blood plays a crucial role in keeping us alive. Furthermore, blood also plays a key role in defending the body against infections and diseases by carrying white blood cells. This essential function helps to protect our overall health and well-being.
Role Of Blood In Human Body
“Our blood is an incredible life force, carrying oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells throughout the body. It is a continuously replenishing system where the bone marrow acts as a factory, churning out billions of blood cells every second. These cells have particular roles. Red blood cells deliver oxygen, white blood cells fight infection, and platelets aid clotting. But a malfunction in this production line can lead to a blood tumor called Leukemia. Leukemia develops when the bone marrow starts generating irregular white blood cells,” said Dr Rajat Bajaj, Consultant Hematology and BMT physician, HCG Cancer Centre, Nagpur. These malignant cells crowd out healthy ones, interrupting the body’s ability to fight infection, transport oxygen, and control bleeding.
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Types Of Leukemia
As per Dr Bajaj, there are different types of leukemia; the following are some examples.
1.Acute Leukemia: This aggressive form progresses rapidly. The abnormal white blood cells multiply quickly, leaving room for healthy ones to mature. There are two types of acute Leukemia:
- Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL): It is most common among children and young adults. It targets lymphocyte development, a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune system.
- Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML): This is the most common form of acute Leukemia in adults. It interrupts the production of various blood cell types, involving red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
2.Chronic Leukemia: This form progresses slowly. The abnormal white blood cells develop more gradually, and the body may initially compensate for the imbalance. Chronic Leukemia has two major types:
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): It is the most common type of Leukemia, typically affecting older adults. It involves a gradual increase in abnormal lymphocytes.
- Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML): This affects a specific protein in the bone marrow, causing a slow but uncontrolled growth of white blood cells.
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Symptoms of Leukemia
Warnings signs and symptoms: Early detection is important for effective and successful treatment of Leukemia. Be aware of these potential warning signs.
- Fatigue and weakness
- High fever or chills
- Frequent infections
- Easy bruising and bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Shortness of breath or night sweats
- Pain or tenderness in bones or joints
Treatment Approaches
Different types of treatment approaches: The course of therapy and treatments for Leukemia depends on the specific type, seriousness, and your overall health. Here’s an overview of common approaches:
- Chemotherapy: This is the most common treatment option for Leukemia, using strong drugs to kill tumor cells. Chemotherapy can be given through pills, injections or intravenously.
- Radiation Therapy: High energy targeted X-rays are used to destroy and kill Leukemia cells, particularly in localized areas.
- Stem Cell Transplant: This method of treatment involves replacement of damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells. Stem cells can come from a matched donor or your own body (autologous transplant)
- Targeted Therapy: These drugs attack specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and survival of Leukemia cells.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy Leukemia cells
- Diets to be considered- Diet plays a major role before, during and after the treatment of Leukemia. Here are some key points:
- Maintaining a healthy diet- Ensure to get an adequate amount of foods high in protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support your immune system and overall health.
- Managing Side Effects- Certain treatments and medications can cause nausea, mouth sores and difficulty swallowing. Opt for smaller, more frequent meals, soft foods, and plenty of fluids.
- Prevention from Infection- Chemotherapy can weaken your immune system. Focus on proper food sanitation and avoid uncooked or contaminated foods.
Leukemia can be a challenging journey, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many people can achieve long-term remission. Remember, a healthy diet and lifestyle can significantly contribute to your recovery and well-being.