6 Types Of Cancer Cause Low Hemoglobin
There is no second thought in the fact that cancer is one of the primary reasons for several other diseases. Since cancer damages the human body in one way or another, its one of the most common effects is a decrease in hemoglobin levels. This can lead to various fatal and acute health issues. Several different and rarest types of cancer can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels in their own way, whether slow or fast. Thus, it’s important to understand the types of cancer that can cause a low hemoglobin count.
Leukemia
Leukemia is a carcinoma type that affects the blood and bone marrow. It can significantly lower the hemoglobin level of your body. An overproduction of immature white blood cells typically causes leukemia. As a result, it decreases hemoglobin levels in the blood. Some of the most common symptoms reported by a majority of leukemia patients include fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and joint pain.
Lymphoma
It is the next-level type of cancer that can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Lymphoma disturbs the functioning of the lymphatic system. As this system is an active part of the immune system, a slight disturbance in the functioning of the system can cause grave damage to the human body.
It is usually caused by a mutation in the B-cells, which can lead to an overproduction of white blood cells. The majority of the reported symptoms included fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, weight loss, and itching.
Multiple myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a type of carcinoma that greatly affects the bone marrow’s plasma cells. It is caused by an overproduction of abnormal plasma cells, which can decrease hemoglobin levels. However, the symptoms of multiple myeloma may include bone pain, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is another type of cancer that can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels. It is usually caused by an abnormal growth of cells in the lungs and can be caused by both smoking and exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants. Symptoms of lung cancer may include a persistent cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a decreased appetite.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is also among several other hemoglobin-reducing cancers. It damages the breast cells. It is usually caused by an abnormal growth of cells in the breasts and can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Symptoms of breast cancer may include a bump in the breast and variation in the size and shape of the breast.
Prostate Cancer
The carcinoma affecting the prostate gland in males is referred to as prostate cancer. It is usually caused by an abnormal growth of cells in the prostate and can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Most observe symptoms of this disease include urinary problems, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and pain during urination.
Other Hemoglobin Decreasing Carcinoma
Finally, many other types of blood cancer can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels. These include cancers of the ovaries, pancreas, stomach, and liver. It’s significant to talk to your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms of cancer so that you can get the proper treatments.
Many types of cancer can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin levels. It’s important to understand the types of cancer causing a low hemoglobin count and to seek instant medical attention if you have any signs or symptoms of cancer.
also read : What are different types of Cancer
What Is Hemoglobin & Why Is It Important?
Low hemoglobin levels can be caused by various cancers, including leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. These types of cancers can cause anemia by destroying or preventing the production of healthy red blood cells.
They can also cause anemia by interfering with the absorption of iron (Fe), which is essential for producing hemoglobin. Other cancers, such as colon cancer and colorectal cancer, can also sometimes cause anemia by destroying or preventing red blood cell production.
Besides, chemotherapy or radiation can also lower hemoglobin levels. These treatments can damage or destroy the red blood cells that produce hemoglobin.
Through several case studies, it has been observed that hemoglobin production and absorption are vastly impacted by certain medications. For example, some chemotherapy drugs can damage the bone marrow, which can cause trouble in the production of new red blood cells. Bone Marrow is the production house for forming new red blood corpuscles.
Diagnosis of Cancer That Can Cause Low Hemoglobin
It is no secret that cancer is a heartbreaking diagnosis to receive, and it can cause various symptoms and complications. Low hemoglobin is one of cancer’s most common and serious symptoms. The protein in the red blood corpuscles is hemoglobin. It is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. So it’s important to maintain healthy levels to keep your body functioning properly.
Fortunately, various tests are available to diagnose cancer and check for low hemoglobin. These tests can help detect cancer and its related complications and help patients take the necessary steps to treat their condition. This section highlights two of the most common tests used to diagnose cancer and check for low hemoglobin: blood tests and bone marrow tests.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are the most accurate and common way to diagnose cancer and check for low hemoglobin. Different types of blood tests are used to check for specific markers in the blood, such as the presence of cancerous cells or antibodies. Doctors may also perform a complete blood count (CBC) to measure the blood’s levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin. If the CBC results show low hemoglobin levels, this could indicate that the patient may have blood cancer.
Bone Marrow Tests
Another test used to diagnose cancer and check for low hemoglobin is a bone marrow test. This test checks for cancer cells in the marrow, which is the soft, spongy material inside the bones. During the test, a sample of bone marrow is taken and analyzed for cancer cells. This type of test is especially beneficial for identifying certain types of cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
However, in some cases, the patient may also face bone perforation issues which a specialist can easily diagnose using Bone Density Test.
No matter which test is used, it is important to get tested for cancer and low hemoglobin if you are experiencing any symptoms associated with these disorders. Early detection of any medical condition is the key to successful treatment, so consulting your doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms is always the best course of action. If you are diagnosed with cancer, your doctor will develop a treatment plan to help manage your condition and help you maintain your overall health.
Treatment
When it comes to treating cancer that can cause low hemoglobin levels, there are a few different approaches that can be taken. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary, while medication is the best course of action in other cases. Let’s take a closer look at these two treatment options.
Blood Transfusion
A blood transfusion is a treatment that involves replacing lost red blood cells with donated ones. This can be a lifesaving measure for people with cancer that has caused a low hemoglobin level. Sometimes, a blood transfusion may be the only way to restore the body’s normal red blood cell count.
The procedure for a blood transfusion is relatively simple. First, the person receiving the transfusion will have their blood drawn. They may also receive a sedative to help them relax during this process. Then, the donated blood is filtered and tested to make sure it is compatible with the recipient’s blood type. The donated blood is then infused into the recipient’s bloodstream, gradually replacing their lost red blood cells.
The risks of a blood transfusion include allergic reactions, infection, and blood clotting. Therefore, discussing the risks and benefits of a blood transfusion with your doctor before undergoing the procedure is important.
Medication
In some cases, oncologists recommend and prefer medication as the best course of action for treating cancer that has caused a low hemoglobin level. Common medications used to treat this condition include erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and iron supplements.
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents are drugs that stimulate the body’s production of red blood cells. These drugs can be injected under the skin or given intravenously. Common erythropoiesis-stimulating agents include epoetin alfa (Procrit) and darbepoetin alfa (Aranesp).
Iron supplements may also be prescribed to treat cancer-related anemia. Iron is the key component for the production of healthy red blood cells. It is important to talk to your medical professional about any supplements you are taking, as some may interfere with the medications you are taking for cancer treatment.
Prevention of Cancer That Can Cause Low Hemoglobin
When it comes to preventing cancer, there are several steps we can take to minimize our risk of developing the disease and, in turn, lower our hemoglobin levels. Prevention is always better than cure, as low hemoglobin levels can lead to serious health complications.
Avoid Risk Factors
The first step in preventing cancer is avoiding risk factors. These can include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to certain environmental toxins. Besides, it is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.
Get Regular Checkups
Second, regular health checkups are essential for detecting cancer in its early stages. It is important to attend screenings and tests that your doctor recommends. This can help to identify any potential health issues, as well as any signs of cancer.
Get Enough Rest
Finally, staying on top of your health is essential for preventing cancer and low hemoglobin levels. Some of the easiest things you can do include getting enough rest, managing stress, and avoiding exposure to harmful substances.
Prevention Is The Key
It is important to note that while prevention is key, it is also important to seek medical help and adequate treatment if you have any signs or symptoms of cancer. Early detection and treatment can be a vital difference between life and death, so it is better to be aware of any potential signs or symptoms.
The bottom line is that cancer prevention and low hemoglobin levels can go hand-in-hand. By avoiding risk factors, getting regular health checkups, and staying on top of your health, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk of developing cancer and lower your hemoglobin levels.
Conclusion
Various cancers like leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and multiple myeloma are the prime cause of decreasing blood hemoglobin levels. Chemotherapy and radiation can also lower hemoglobin levels, as can certain medications. It is important to have a word with your doctor or women’s imaging specialist if you are experiencing any symptoms associated with low hemoglobin levels, such as fatigue, pale skin, or shortness of breath.