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Bruising: a leukaemia symptom

Is bruising a sign of leukaemia?

Yes, bruising can be a sign of leukaemia.

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Most bruises are normal and happen when we bump into things. However, some bruises may be a clue that something more serious is happening.

Bruises that might mean leukaemia:

  • Bruises in strange places – like your back, hands or legs, where you don’t normally get them.

  • Lots of bruises – if you have many bruises at once, and don’t know why.

  • Bruises for no reason – if they show up without bumping into anything.

  • Bruises that won’t go away – they last longer than four weeks or get bigger.

  • Other bleeding – like nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or very heavy periods.

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I'm experiencing bruising - what do I do? 

If you are experiencing unexplained bruising, you should contact your GP and ask for a blood test. It might not be leukaemia, but it could be something else so it's important you get it checked out. 

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Jan’s Story: From first day nerves to a life-saving diagnosis


On her very first day as a Senior Sister, Jan noticed unusual bruising on her legs. What she thought was fluff on her tights turned out to be purpuric bruises—a symptom she couldn’t ignore.

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A quick chat with a colleague led to a blood test, and within 24 hours, Jan was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

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Despite the shock, Jan faced chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, and unimaginable loss with resilience. Today, she’s 66 and thriving.

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Know the signs:
✔ Unusual bruising
✔ Extreme fatigue
✔ Frequent infections

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Early diagnosis saves lives. Ask your doctor for a blood test.

Jan Henry, Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) patient

When should I worry?

Most bruises or rashes are not serious. But sometimes, they can be a sign of something more.

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Leukaemia can be hard to spot because its signs can look like other everyday problems.

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Go to the doctor if:

  • You get bruises a lot

  • The bruises don’t go away

  • You have other signs that don’t feel right

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If you are experiencing unexplained bruising that doesn't go away, contact your GP and ask for a blood test. 

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A campaign ran by Leukaemia Care and Leukaemia UK.

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Raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of leukaemia. Less than 1% of the UK public can name the top three symptoms of leukaemia. Help us change this today. Early Diagnosis Saves Lives. 

If you have any of the symptoms of leukaemia and are worried. Contact your GP and ask for a blood test.

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