MDS
produces few symptoms until well into the course of the disease. When symptoms finally appear, they are not at all specific for MDS and may require extensive investigation to pin down their source. Symptoms may be due to any of the three principal functions of the bone marrow: oxygen carrying, blood clotting, and controlling infection.

If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to cancer. Most of these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.

Symptoms due to Anemia

Anemia
occurs when the red blood cell count drops. Symptoms of anemia include the following:

Angina
—This condition is characterized by pain in the chest that feels like squeezing or pressure.

Heart failure
—This is the inability of the heart to pump the necessary amount of blood through the body, which causes fluid to pool in the liver, lungs, and other parts of the body. The first symptom is usually swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs.

In people with a history of cerebrovascular disease, anemia may increase the risk of:

Stroke
or stroke-like symptoms—This may include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, dizziness, difficulty swallowing, and mental confusion

Transient ischemic attacks
—Sometimes referred to as a "mini-stroke," this is temporary brain dysfunction due to a shortage of blood and oxygen.

Symptoms Due to a Bleeding Disorder

MDS may also decrease the number of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. When blood clotting is impaired, the following symptoms may occur:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.