Low Hemoglobin Caused by Cancer

Introduction

Low hemoglobin, also referred to as anemia, is a common side effect of some forms of cancer. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen and carries it to the body’s tissues. It is essential for your body’s oxygen supply and is an important part of your blood chemistry. When cancer is present, it often affects your body’s ability to produce healthy new red blood cells or destroy old red blood cells. This can render any number of the body’s systems ineffective. One of the most common manifestations of this problem is a lowered red blood cell count, or a low hemoglobin level.

Causes of Low Hemoglobin with Cancer

There are several causes of low hemoglobin with cancer, but the most common are: chemotherapy, radiation, bone marrow suppression, and tumor growth.

Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment used to fight cancer. Some chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells, while others, such as chemo drugs that target red cells, kill red blood cells as well, causing an anemic state. Radiation treatment is also used to fight cancer, and can also cause an anemic state when it destroys red blood cells.

Bone marrow suppression is a term used to describe a condition where the body is unable to produce enough new red blood cells. Many treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, can cause this problem. Additionally, tumors can interfere with the production and maturation of red blood cells.

Tumor growth itself can also interfere with healthy red blood cell production and maturation, causing an anemic state. Cancer cells can crowd out healthy cells, preventing them from doing their job, or they can produce hormones that interfere with the production or maturation of red blood cells.

Symptoms of Low Hemoglobin with Cancer

Some of the common symptoms of an anemic state caused by cancer are fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, pale skin, rapid heart rate, and headaches. Low energy levels, mental fatigue, and difficulty concentrating can also be present.

Most people with an anemic state caused by cancer will require a blood transfusion to replenish their missing red cells. This can help to restore their red cell production, as well as provide a healthy supply of hemoglobin.

Conclusion

Low hemoglobin caused by cancer is a common side effect associated with the disease, but can be successfully treated with supportive care and medications. It is important to speak with your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms associated with an anemic condition caused by cancer, as this may require a blood transfusion. While low hemoglobin can feel difficult to manage, it is important to remember that there is help available, and your quality of life can be restored with the proper care.