Leukemia - When To Call a Doctor

When To Call a Doctor

Call your doctor to schedule an appointment if you have had any symptoms for longer than 2 weeks, such as:

• A new lump or swollen gland in your neck, under your arm, or in your groin.
• Frequent nosebleeds, bleeding from the gums or rectum, more frequent bruising, or very heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Frequent fevers.
• Night sweats.
• Unexplained appetite loss or recent weight loss.
• Feeling tired a lot without a known reason.
• Swelling and pain on the left side of the belly.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a period when your doctor is checking you regularly but not treating you. It is also called observation or surveillance. It means that you and your doctor will watch to see if you develop symptoms. It may be a treatment choice if you are an older adult, depending on the stage of the leukemia and your overall health.

Watchful waiting may give as good or better results than more aggressive treatment for early stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It is estimated that 1 in 3 people who have CLL never need treatment.⁸ People who have chronic lymphocytic leukemia often live for a long time without treatment. Watchful waiting is not usually recommended for other types of leukemia.

During watchful waiting, you will:

• Have regular appointments with your doctor.
• Have regular medical tests, including scans and blood tests.
• Be told which symptoms to report to your doctor immediately.

Who To See

Health professionals who can evaluate symptoms of leukemia include the following:

• Family medicine physician
• Internist
• Pediatrician
• Nurse practitioner
• Physician assistant

The diagnosis of leukemia will be done by a medical oncologist or hematologist using a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy. These specialists also treat leukemia.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment