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Warning-sign checks

Hairy cell leukemia: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Follow any fever threshold or emergency plan given to you during treatment.

    Infection can become serious more quickly when neutrophil levels are low.

    Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, bleeding that will not stop, or sudden severe abdominal pain.

    Sudden pain under the left ribs after an injury could indicate damage to an enlarged spleen.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your leukemia team or seek same-day medical advice if you develop:

    • Fever, chills, or signs of infection, especially during or after treatment
    • New bruising, repeated nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in urine or stool
    • Worsening tiredness, dizziness, breathlessness, or reduced ability to exercise
    • Increasing fullness or pain under the left ribs
    • Symptoms that return after a period of remission
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is the right place to discuss gradual changes, ongoing fatigue, treatment side effects, or concerns about work and daily activities.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hairy cell leukemia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.