What is anemia?

Anemia happens when your blood can’t carry enough oxygen to your tissues. This can make you feel tired, short of breath, light-headed, or give you headaches, palpitations, or a pale appearance. Because these symptoms can look very similar to cancer-related fatigue, a complete blood count (CBC) is needed to confirm whether anemia is present.

Why does it happen in cancer?

Cancer can affect blood production in several ways. It may slow the bone marrow through chronic inflammation, cause hidden bleeding, especially with cancers of the stomach or intestines, or spread into the marrow itself. Treatments like chemotherapy can temporarily reduce blood-cell production, and radiation to large bone areas may do the same. Some medications also reduce the body’s ability to absorb important vitamins such as B12 and folate. When appetite is low, or nausea and poor fluid intake occur, iron and vitamin levels can drop even further.

When should I call my care team?

Contact your doctor right away if fatigue starts to limit your daily activities, if you feel short of breath with very little effort, or if you notice any unexplained bleeding (such as bleeding gums, nosebleeds, or black, tarry stools). You should also seek help if you have persistent dizziness, ongoing headaches, or worrying heart palpitations. Acting early helps prevent complications and keeps your cancer treatment as safe as possible.

How do we reach the cause?

Your doctor will start by reviewing your symptoms, medications, and eating habits, then perform a focused physical exam. After that, they may order tests. A CBC with red-cell indices and a blood smear helps show the type of anemia. Additional tests may include iron studies (ferritin and transferrin saturation), vitamin B12 and folate levels, kidney and liver function, and stool tests to check for hidden bleeding. If the cause is unclear or there are signs of significant bone-marrow suppression, a bone-marrow test or targeted imaging may be recommended.

What do the results mean?

A low MCV together with low ferritin usually means iron deficiency. A high MCV often points to a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, or sometimes a side effect of certain medications. If your white blood cells or platelets drop at the same time as your hemoglobin, this may indicate bone-marrow suppression and requires a more individualized treatment plan.

How do we treat anemia?

Once we understand the cause, your care team creates a plan that helps relieve symptoms while keeping your cancer treatment moving safely. The most common steps may include:

• Treating the underlying cause: stopping any visible or hidden bleeding and managing kidney or liver problems if present.
• Replacing iron: using oral supplements if tolerated, or intravenous iron when faster correction is needed or absorption is poor.
• Correcting vitamin deficiencies: replenishing B12 and folate with follow-up tests to ensure levels improve.
• Adjusting cancer treatment when necessary: reviewing drug doses or timing if the bone marrow is suppressed.
• Using erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: in selected patients, with close monitoring.
• Providing blood transfusions when needed: especially if symptoms are severe or hemoglobin levels are very low.
• Supporting overall health: through balanced nutrition, regular hydration, and good sleep to improve daily energy.

Your next practical steps

Alongside your medical treatment, a few simple habits at home can quickly help improve your energy and breathing. Try the following this week:

• Have a daily iron source such as lentils, beans, chickpeas, or lean red meat.
• Boost iron absorption by adding vitamin C (like lemon or orange) to meals rich in iron.
• Wait at least one hour after eating before drinking tea or coffee.
• Drink fluids regularly; aim for consistent sleep; and include gentle walking if your energy allows.
• Take your medications as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments; keep a brief symptom log.
• Call your care team promptly if you develop red-flag symptoms such as severe fatigue that limits activity, noticeable shortness of breath, unexplained bleeding, or persistent dizziness.

Contact Us

For more information, contact Ayady Hospital at +2033785040 or info@ayady4040.org.

This article is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment tailored to you.