Man who thought he just had bad flu stunned by results of blood test weeks later

A man experienced flu-like symptoms – only to discover months later he had a rare cancer.

Martin Vessey was initially told he had a bad case of flu but his health deteriorated and, within months, he developed a persistent cough and delirium. Severe night sweats, aching limbs and muscles and unexplained bruising followed and eventually his GP arranged a review.

Blood tests were carried out during the thorough review and the results were devastating. Far from the expected flu recovery, Martin was diagnosed with blood cancer – the rare chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CCL). Martin was his doctor’s first patient, Wales Online reports.

Reflecting on his experience, Martin praised his medical team at his local hospital, saying they “were excellent”. While the hospital provided the diagnosis, Martin sought further information to understand his condition better. He found charities and medical websites to be invaluable resources in navigating the unknowns of his disease, helping him learn more about his condition.

CLL is a type of leukaemia, which progresses gradually over several years. The NHS states that while it’s typically incurable, it can be managed effectively with treatment. It’s an ailment which becomes more prevalent with age, being extremely rare in individuals under 40. Although the cause remains unclear, having a close family member who has battled CLL may slightly increase your risk.

Four years into his journey, Martin, from Southeast England, is enrolled in a ‘Watch and Wait’ scheme where his symptoms are closely monitored. This approach is employed for blood cancer patients who don’t require immediate treatment – some may never need it at all. It entails regular check-ups and blood tests to keep a vigilant eye on the disease’s progression.

Leukaemia Care reveals that CLL is the most common type of leukaemia in the UK, with over 3,500 new diagnoses each year. The experiences of CLL patients can vary greatly, right from their initial diagnosis, through the ‘Watch and Wait’ phase and beyond. It’s estimated that around 13,000 CLL patients in the UK are currently on ‘Watch and Wait’.

The most common symptoms of leukaemia include fatigue, unexplained bleeding and bruising, recurrent infections, fever or night sweats, bone or joint pain, and shortness of breath. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your GP and request a blood test. For more information, visit the Spot Leukaemia page.

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