High Menstrual Bleeding
High menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can be caused by a lower platelet count in certain types of the myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). This condition can lead to heavy menstruation in women. When combined with anemia, it can further exacerbate fatigue and weakness in patients. In some cases, the symptoms may be mild and non-specific, leading to a misdiagnosis of a gynecological problem without considering the underlying cause, which is the inadequate clotting due to MDS.
Frequent Infections
Individuals diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome often experience a high frequency of infections caused by viruses, bacteria, and allergies. This is primarily due to abnormally low levels of neutrophils in their blood. Neutrophils play a crucial role in the body’s immune response to infections, so patients with myelodysplastic syndrome are more susceptible to recurring illnesses. They may develop gastrointestinal infections, ear, nose, and throat problems, and in severe cases, even life-threatening conditions like sepsis. Therefore, it is crucial to screen individuals who are consistently deemed “weak” or prone to illness for myelodysplastic syndrome.