Myelodysplastic Syndrome… Although it is a rare disease, it can occur in anyone and is found worldwide. Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a disorder affecting white blood cells or red blood cells, resulting in the inability to produce fully functional blood cells like normal individuals.
There are 2 types of myelodysplastic syndrome:
- Aplastic anemia, commonly found in young people
- Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), commonly found in the elderly
Causes of myelodysplastic syndrome
- Genetic abnormalities in the patient’s own body
- Toxic environmental factors to stem cells, such as exposure to chemicals or radiation therapy
- Lifestyle habits, such as smoking or infection with certain viruses
Symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome
- Paleness
- Shortness of breath, easy fatigue
- Fever
- Bleeding spots on the body, bruises
- Nosebleeds, easy bleeding, possible bleeding in the mouth
- Women may experience abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding
- Some cases may vomit blood, have blood in urine, or blood in stool
- Rapid pulse, rapid breathing
- Heart failure
Ways to reduce the risk of myelodysplastic syndrome
- Avoid working with chemicals or radioactive substances that can cause genetic changes in stem cells
- Have regular annual health check-ups
- If experiencing abnormal symptoms or risk signs of myelodysplastic syndrome, consult a doctor promptly
