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Questions and answers

Is every symptom a relapse?

After treatment, any tiredness or pain can bring fear. Most often it is not a relapse.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A small object, a big shadow
Figure 1.A small object, a big shadow

01Short answer

Fear of relapse after remission is very common and natural. But most everyday symptoms (tiredness, a mild cold, muscle aches, headaches) are not linked to leukemia or are fading effects of treatment. Relapse is mainly found by blood tests and regular check-ups. Lasting or worsening symptoms, such as fever, bleeding, bruising, bone pain or night sweats, should be reported to your doctor. Do not hide your worry, but do not treat every sign as a relapse either.

02Simple explanation

The body’s ordinary signals do not mean leukemia.

A lasting or worsening symptom is a reason to tell the doctor.

03Scientific explanation

“Fear of cancer recurrence” is a recognised condition in cancer survivors and is eased by psychological support.

For finding relapse early, planned blood tests and sometimes MRD monitoring are more sensitive than symptoms.

04What happens in the body?

Ordinary symptoms

Tiredness can last months after treatment. Infections, stress and poor sleep cause weakness too. These usually improve gradually.

What needs attention

Unexplained bruises, bleeding gums, a lasting fever, growing weakness, bone pain and enlarging lymph nodes: tell your doctor.

A symptom diary
Figure 2.A symptom diary — Is every symptom a relapse?

Living with fear

A symptom diary, planned check-ups and talking with a psychologist help manage fear.

A reassuring check-up
Figure 3.A reassuring check-up

05What to do with a symptom

Four steps.

Notice — Note the symptom.1NoticeNote the symptom.
Write it down — When and how.2Write it downWhen and how.
Watch the time — Is it passing or getting worse?3Watch the timeIs it passing or getting worse?
Tell the doctor — If it lasts or is severe.4Tell the doctorIf it lasts or is severe.
Less fearA plan eases worry.
Timely helpImportant signs are not missed.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Ordinary symptomsTiredness can last months after treatment. Infections, stress and poor sleep cause weakness too. These usually improve gradually.
What needs attentionUnexplained bruises, bleeding gums, a lasting fever, growing weakness, bone pain and enlarging lymph nodes: tell your doctor.
Living with fearA symptom diary, planned check-ups and talking with a psychologist help manage fear.

07Key terms

Relapse
The disease coming back after remission.
Fear of recurrence
Worry that the disease will return.
Symptom diary
A notebook for recording symptoms.

08Key points

  • Not every symptom is a relapse.
  • Report lasting symptoms.
  • Check-ups find relapse better.
  • Support is available for fear.

09Frequently asked questions

Why does my tiredness not go away?

Recovery after treatment takes time; check anaemia and other causes with your doctor.

Should I get tested every time?

Follow the planned schedule; the doctor decides on extra tests.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Why does my tiredness not go away?

  2. Should I get tested every time?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Recurrent Cancer: When Cancer Comes Back
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adjustment to Cancer: Anxiety and Distress (PDQ®)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Feelings and Cancer
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
  6. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Leukemia
  7. MedlinePlus. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  8. NHS. Sepsis
  9. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Bone marrow aspiration
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). The Genetics of Cancer
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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