Symptoms of MDS

Many people with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) have no symptoms when they are diagnosed. However, symptoms that are present relate to the type of blood cell involved and how low the blood cell count has dropped.1 For instance:

• If the red blood cells are affected, a person with MDS may develop anemia (low red blood cell count).
• If the white blood cells are affected, a person with MDS may develop neutropenia (low white cell count).
• If the platelets are affected, a person may develop thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).1

The extent of symptoms also depends on the severity of the disease. Each of these blood cell–related illnesses (anemia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia) has its own symptoms, and depending on the disease type, a person may have a combination of symptoms.1,2

Anemia

People with MDS who develop anemia may experience a combination of the following symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Heart palpitation (abnormally rapid heart beat)
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Abnormally pale skin1,2

People with severe anemia may experience severe fatigue and shortness of breath, chest pains, or even heart attacks.1

Neutropenia

People with neutropenia may experience a combination of the following symptoms:

• Frequent or persistent infections, such as skin, lung, sinus and urinary tract infections.
• Fevers
• Mouth sores1,2

Thrombocytopenia

People with thrombocytopenia may experience abnormal bruising and bleeding, especially nosebleeds or bleeding gums.1

It is important to know that experiencing some of the symptoms described here does not mean a person has MDS; other medical conditions may cause the same symptoms. Therefore, it is important to consult a health care provider to discuss symptoms and receive a proper diagnosis.2

Learn more about MDS by visiting other pages in this section, such as MDS and Quality of Life. And for information on managing MDS symptoms, visit the Managing Myelodysplastic Syndromes section.