Symptoms

Main symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

Many people who have chronic lymphocytic leukaemia do not have any symptoms.

Symptoms are not always obvious at first and can be similar to other conditions.

The main symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia include:

• swollen glands, usually in your neck or under your arms
• losing weight
• getting ill a lot
• feeling tired even though you've had a good night's sleep
• a rash that looks like small bruises or bleeding under the skin and does not fade when you roll a glass over it, similar to meningitis
• bleeding or bruising for no reason
• looking unusually pale and feeling breathless
• a high temperature even though you're not unwell
• aches and pains that will not go away
• sweating at night

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is rare in people under the age of 40.

What happens at your GP appointment

The GP may ask to examine you. This is so they can check any parts of your body that are swollen or painful.

You can have a friend, family member or other member of staff in the room with you during the exam if you want.

They may also arrange for you to have a blood test.

Referral to a specialist

The GP may refer you for more tests or to see a specialist in hospital if they think you have a condition that needs to be investigated.

This may be an urgent referral, usually within 2 weeks, if you have certain symptoms. This does not definitely mean you have cancer.