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Real members of MyLeukemiaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I was diagnosed last June with CLL. Dr said my numbers were low, now my numbers are higher. Should I start with the pill or vitamins

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Dover, FL
April 22
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

How much higher are they Grace? Any other new symptoms since June?

April 22
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I requested medication when my blood count was at 76000. I did not have any lumps or bumps. I was visiting the gym 3 times a week and very active managing my property. I was given Brukinsa which is effective for 10 to 20 years or until those bad cells mutate and are not effected by the drug. My doctor got me a money grant from Leukemia Society to pay the copayment $3400 and insurance paid to the main payment. My doctor only told me to not worry and I had to learn all about CLL and medication by myself. I even learned how the BTK inhibitor attaches to the bad cells to kill it. I learned CLL is a long term illness and we can be effective with having a good life. Celebrating Long Life (CLL)

April 22
MyLeukemiaTeam

Should you start treatment with medication or vitamins now that your CLL numbers are higher?

This is an important decision that should be made with your doctor based on your specific situation. Rising numbers alone don't automatically mean it's time to start treatment.

Your doctor will consider several factors before Show Full Answer

Should you start treatment with medication or vitamins now that your CLL numbers are higher?

This is an important decision that should be made with your doctor based on your specific situation. Rising numbers alone don't automatically mean it's time to start treatment.

Your doctor will consider several factors before recommending treatment:

* Whether you're experiencing symptoms like fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes, or an enlarged spleen
* How quickly your lymphocyte count is doubling
* Whether you have anemia or low platelet counts
* Results from genetic biomarker testing
* Your overall health and age

Many people with CLL can safely stay on "watchful waiting" even as numbers change. Starting treatment early doesn't usually improve outcomes unless symptoms develop or the disease is progressing significantly.

When treatment is needed, doctors typically recommend targeted therapy medications (like BTK or BCL-2 inhibitors) rather than vitamins. While eating a nutritious diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports your overall health, vitamins aren't a substitute for CLL treatment when it's medically necessary.

The best approach is to discuss your rising numbers with your doctor. They can evaluate whether you need to start treatment now or continue monitoring, and which medication would be most appropriate for your specific case.

April 22

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