Aplastic anemia is a rare, potentially life-threatening medical condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce adequate amounts of new blood cells. It can be difficult to diagnose aplastic anemia in its early stages, as people may initially experience only mild symptoms, or none at all. In some cases, it can take a long time for a diagnosis to be made.
Symptoms of Aplastic Anemia
In its early stages, aplastic anemia may not cause any symptoms, or the symptoms may be very mild. As the condition progresses, people may experience a range of signs and symptoms, including:
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Easy bruising
• Excessive bleeding
• Frequent infections
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Coldness in the hands and feet
• Headaches
• Rapid heart rate
• Abnormal heart rhythms
Diagnosing Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages, as the symptoms may be mild or nonexistent. To diagnose aplastic anemia, a doctor may order a number of tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), bone marrow biopsy, and a physical exam.
The CBC measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood, and can help identify anemia. During a bone marrow biopsy, a doctor removes a sample of bone marrow from the hip and examines it under a microscope. This test can help reveal whether the bone marrow is not producing enough new blood cells.
Treatment Options
The treatment for aplastic anemia depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, a doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, getting adequate rest, and avoiding certain medications.
For more severe cases, a doctor may recommend a bone marrow transplant, which involves replacing the damaged bone marrow with healthy bone marrow from a donor. This can restore the body’s ability to produce new blood cells. Other treatments may include medications, such as immunosuppressants, to reduce the body’s immune response.
Can You Have Aplastic Anemia and Not Know?
Yes, it is possible to have aplastic anemia and not know it. In its early stages, the condition may not cause any symptoms, or the symptoms may be very mild. Therefore, it can take a long time for a diagnosis to be made. If you have any of the symptoms associated with aplastic anemia, it is important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis.