When CLL first develops, patients may not have any symptoms, and this phase may last for several years. CLL is often discovered when people with the disease have routine blood tests during a regular checkup.
With the passage of time, however, as the number of diseased cells increases and they start to interfere with the body's normal functioning, symptoms may slowly develop. These symptoms can include:
- shortness of breath
- weight loss
- enlarged lymph nodes
- a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- night sweats
- fever
- loss of appetite
- fatigue, lightheadedness, and dizziness
- recurrent infections of the skin and respiratory tract
These symptoms are associated with a wide range of conditions and illnesses. If these problems persist, consult a physician.