Symptoms of aplastic anemia that should be alerted when seen

We usually understand anemia as iron deficiency. But beyond this, there is a serious and rare type of blood disease—aplastic anemia. In this disease, the body's blood-forming center, i.e., the bone marrow, cannot function properly, resulting in impaired blood cell production. According to expert doctors, although awareness about the disease is relatively low, the chances of recovery are much higher if it is identified and treated on time.

In this disease, the bone marrow fails to produce sufficient amounts of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. As a result, the patient's body experiences severe weakness, risk of infection, and excessive bleeding. In medical terms, this is called bone marrow failure.

Aplastic anemia can occur at any age, but it is more common in young people. Many times, the specific cause is not known. However, possible causes include hereditary problems, side effects of some medications, exposure to harmful chemicals such as benzene, radiation, viral infections, and autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of the disease usually appear gradually. These include excessive fatigue, shortness of breath, bleeding from various parts of the body, easy bruising, frequent fever or infections, and sores on the face. If such symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Currently, significant improvements have been made in the treatment of this disease. In young patients, hematopoietic stem cell transplant is the most effective method, which is done from a matched sibling or a suitable donor, and its success rate is about 90 percent.

On the other hand, triple immunosuppressive therapy is used for elderly or physically weak patients, which includes antithymocyte globulin, cyclosporine, and eltrombopag. This method can improve the condition of about 60 percent of patients.

Overall, aplastic anemia is a rare but very risky disease. Therefore, it is wise to seek medical attention without delay if you experience symptoms such as unusual fatigue, infection, or bleeding.

Source: Hindustan Times