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Understanding Anemia

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Anemia - shortage of red blood cells.

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What is Anemia?

Anemia is a common side effect of many chemotherapy treatments and affects seven out of ten people during their treatment. Anemia is a condition in which the body does not make enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and carry oxygen throughout the body. When your red blood cells are very low, your organs and body tissues don't get enough oxygen and can't function properly. This is what causes the symptoms of anemia, such as weakness and fatigue. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts with regular blood tests, and prescribe transfusions and medications to increase your red blood cell count if needed. If the anemia is caused by a lack of nutrients, the doctor may prescribe vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid supplements.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or lack of energy, and is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs can deplete your red blood cells and lead to a condition known as anemia. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from your lungs to all parts of your body. Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, happen because your organs aren't receiving enough oxygen. Your doctor will perform regular blood tests to check for anemia, and can prescribe medications or transfusions to increase your red blood cell count if needed.

Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Trouble concentrating or thinking clearly
Shortness of breath after light activity
Difficulty climbing stairs or performing simple daily tasks
Fatigue or extreme exhaustion
  • Trouble concentrating or thinking clearly
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Shortness of breath after light activity
  • Difficulty climbing stairs or performing simple daily tasks
  • Fatigue or extreme exhaustion
  • Body chills
  • Paleness or shakiness
Here are some helpful tips to manage fatigue during chemotherapy:
Try to keep your stress levels as low as possible
Balance the activities you must do and those you enjoy
Eat a well-balanced diet
Try to keep a normal sleep schedule
Engage in light exercise, like short walks
Drink lots of fluids
  • Try to keep your stress levels as low as possible.
  • Balance the activities you must do and those you enjoy.
  • Don't fight fatigue, rest when you need it.
  • Prioritize activities to conserve energy.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet with small, frequent meals.
  • Try to keep a normal sleep schedule.
  • Engage in light exercise, like short walks.
  • Drink lots of fluids to help your body get rid of toxins.

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