Symptoms of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a type of anemia caused by a malfunction in the immune system. In AIHA, the body produces antibodies that attack and destroy its own red blood cells, leading to a decrease in the number of healthy red blood cells and a decrease in the amount of oxygen carried in the blood. Symptoms of AIHA can vary depending on the severity of the anemia. Common symptoms include fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, and jaundice. Other less common symptoms include fever, chest pain, abdominal pain, and confusion. Some people may also experience dark urine or rapid heartbeat. The symptoms of AIHA can be mild or severe and can come on suddenly or develop gradually.