People with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) don't produce enough healthy blood cells, which can lead to anemia, infections, and bleeding. Although it can occur in children, MDS occurs most often in older adults. MDS may be caused by:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Pesticides
- Certain chemicals (such as xylene and benzene)
- Heavy metals (such as mercury or lead)
Signs and symptoms of MDS include:
- Feeling tired or cold
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Enlarged spleen
- Skin sores and fever
- Problems with the immune system
People with MDS may receive transfusions to relieve symptoms of the disease. But the transfusions add extra iron to the body that can build up over time. If you have MDS and have had 10 or more transfusions during your lifetime, then you are at risk for iron overload.
Here are some things you can do to help take control of your health and help protect yourself from iron overload:
- Learn about how iron overload affects your body
- Keep track of the number of transfusions you've had and know if you're at risk for iron overload. Remember, 10 or more transfusions put you at risk for iron overload
- Talk with your doctor about your risk for iron overload
- Get tested. Ask your doctor about a simple blood test called the serum ferritin test
- Know your iron levels. If your iron level continues to be over 1000 mcg/L (micrograms per liter), you have iron overload
If you think you're at risk, be sure to talk with your doctor about getting screened for iron overload.
