Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) symptoms

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) symptoms can develop quickly and may worsen over time if the disease is left untreated. Some may seem mild or easy to overlook at first. However, if you notice any signs or symptoms of AML, seeing a doctor as soon as possible can help lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of AML

Because AML affects the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, symptoms can develop throughout the body and may vary from person to person.

Symptoms of AML may include:

  • Fatigue and weakness: People with AML often feel unusually tired or weak because the body may not be producing enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body.
  • Fever: Frequent or unexplained fevers can occur when AML affects the body’s immune system and ability to fight infection.
  • Frequent infections: AML can reduce the number of healthy white blood cells needed to protect the body from bacteria, viruses and other infections.
  • Easy bruising or bleeding: A low platelet count can make it easier to bruise, bleed or develop nosebleeds. Some people may also notice bleeding gums or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts.
  • Shortness of breath: Low red blood cell levels may make it harder for the body to deliver oxygen efficiently, leading to shortness of breath during everyday activities.
  • Pale skin: Anemia caused by low red blood cell counts can cause the skin to appear paler than usual.
  • Bone or joint pain: Leukemia cells can build up inside the bone marrow, which may cause pain or tenderness in the bones or joints.
  • Petechiae: Petechiae are tiny red, purple or brown spots under the skin caused by bleeding from small blood vessels. This is also commonly referred to as "leukemia rash."
  • Loss of appetite or weight loss: Some people with AML may experience reduced appetite or unintentional weight loss.
  • Night sweats: AML may cause excessive sweating during sleep, even when the room is cool.
  • Swollen gums: In some cases, leukemia cells can build up in the gums, causing swelling, pain or bleeding.
  • Swollen lymph nodes: Although less common in AML than in some other blood cancers, lymph nodes may become enlarged in certain cases.
  • Headaches or dizziness: Low blood cell counts and reduced oxygen delivery can sometimes cause headaches, dizziness or lightheadedness.

When to talk to a doctor about your AML symptoms

Many AML symptoms can also be caused by less serious conditions. However, because AML can progress quickly, it's important to speak with a health care provider if symptoms are persistent, unexplained or worsen over time.

Support for you and your loved ones facing an AML diagnosis

A diagnosis of AML can affect every part of life for patients, families and caregivers. NMDP offers educational resources, support services and guidance to help people better understand AML, navigate treatment decisions and access additional support throughout their journey.

NMDP can help by:

  • Answering questions about your AML diagnosis and blood or marrow transplant (BMT) as a treatment option
  • Connecting you with counselors to help cope with uncertainty
  • Helping you access financial grants if you need BMT
  • Providing access to free educational resources including fact sheets, booklets and videos
  • Answering questions about the transplant process
  • Helping you find and join clinical trials
  • Connecting you with others who have had a transplant for AML

Having as much information as possible on your treatment options for AML will help you and your doctor make the best treatment decisions for your individual case. We've outlined some of our key resources below.

Learn more about the services and resources available to patients

Medical review

✓ Medically reviewed by Dekozlymn Anderson, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
NMDP Patient Support Center
Page last medically reviewed: 6/26/2026