Cancer is a complex and challenging disease affecting millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. Furthermore, cancer can impact various aspects and organs of one’s health, and that is a major cause of concern among cancer patients.
This article discusses the question, can cancer cause low iron? How to manage low hemoglobin levels in cancer patients, and the symptoms that emerge due to low hemoglobin.
Understanding Hemoglobin
Before discussing the relationship between cancer and low hemoglobin, let’s first understand what hemoglobin is. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to different body parts. It also helps transport carbon dioxide, a waste product, back to the lungs to be exhaled.
Additionally, hemoglobin levels are a vital part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. CBC test measures the various components of blood. Low hemoglobin indicates anemia. Anemia is when a person does not have enough healthy red blood cells and cannot carry oxygen effectively.
The Relationship between Cancer and Low Hemoglobin
Cancer can indirectly contribute to low hemoglobin levels through various mechanisms. But, while cancer does not directly cause low iron levels, several factors associated with the condition can lead to anemia.
1. Bone Marrow Suppression
Certain types of cancers affect the bone marrow. The bone marrow is where blood cells are produced. The growth of cancer cells in the bone marrow can interfere with the normal production of red blood cells, leading to anemia and, subsequently, low hemoglobin levels. It can occur with cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
2. Chronic Inflammation
Cancer often triggers chronic inflammation in the body. Inflammatory substances released by cancer cells can interfere with the production and lifespan of red blood cells, contributing to anemia. Chronic inflammation can also lead to the suppression of bone marrow function, exacerbating the problem.
3. Blood Loss
Certain types of cancer, such as gastrointestinal or gynecological cancers, can cause internal bleeding. This bleeding may be evident or occult, meaning it goes unnoticed. Continuous or recurrent blood loss can deplete the body’s red blood cell count, leading to anemia and low hemoglobin levels.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Cancer treatment can cause changes in appetite and digestion, leading to nutritional deficiencies. So, insufficient intake of nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and folate can impair the production of healthy red blood cells, resulting in low hemoglobin levels.
However, some kinds of cancer can lead to low hemoglobin levels. To find out more about what type of cancer causes low hemoglobin, read here.Â
Other Causes of Low Hemoglobin
There can be different causes of low hemoglobin levels. Some causes of low hemoglobin are discussed below.
1. Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency is the most common reason for low hemoglobin. It is necessary for the production of red blood cells. Insufficient iron intake or absorption can lead to decreased hemoglobin levels. Generally, this can occur due to a diet low in iron-rich foods, poor iron absorption in the digestive system, or increased iron requirements during periods of rapid growth or pregnancy.
2. Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of the bone marrow, where red blood cells are produced. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can result in decreased red blood cell production, leading to low hemoglobin levels. Vitamin B12 deficiency can occur due to dietary deficiencies, malabsorption issues, or certain medical conditions that affect absorption or utilization.
3. Folate Deficiency
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is another important nutrient for red blood cell production. A Folate deficiency can impair the maturation of red blood cells, resulting in low hemoglobin levels. Moreover, it can be caused by a poor diet, alcoholism, malabsorption disorders, or certain medications that interfere with folate metabolism.
4. Chronic Diseases and Inflammation
Chronic diseases, such as chronic kidney disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or autoimmune disorders, can contribute to low hemoglobin levels. It disrupts the normal production and lifespan of red blood cells in these conditions, leading to anemia. Additionally, certain chronic diseases can affect the absorption or utilization of iron, vitamin B12, or folate, exacerbating the problem further.
5. Inherited Disorders
Certain inherited disorders can affect the production or structure of hemoglobin, leading to low hemoglobin levels. For example, thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and hereditary spherocytosis can lead to low iron levels. These disorders can result in decreased red blood cell lifespan or abnormal hemoglobin production, contributing to anemia.
Managing Low Hemoglobin in Cancer Patients
Addressing low hemoglobin levels in cancer patients is crucial for their overall well-being and quality of life. Therefore, healthcare providers employ various strategies to manage and improve hemoglobin levels in these individuals. These include:
1. Blood Transfusions
In severe cases of anemia, blood transfusions may be necessary to replenish red blood cell levels and raise hemoglobin. This procedure involves the infusion of donated blood products, providing immediate relief and improving oxygen-carrying capacity.
2. Iron Supplements
A common type of anemia associated with cancer is iron deficiency anemia. When prescribed by a healthcare professional, iron supplements can help restore iron levels and promote the production of healthy red blood cells.
3. Medications to Stimulate Red Blood Cell Production
In certain cases, medications like erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) may be used to stimulate the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. These medications can help increase cancer patient’s hemoglobin levels, alleviating anemia symptoms.
4. Treating the Underlying Cause
All in all, addressing the root cause of anemia is crucial. Treating cancer itself through surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies can help reduce the impact of cancer on blood cell production and improve hemoglobin levels.
Symptoms of Low Hemoglobin
Low hemoglobin levels can manifest in various symptoms affecting a person’s well-being. Thus, recognizing these symptoms is important for timely diagnosis and appropriate management. Following are the common symptoms a person can experience in case of low hemoglobin:
Fatigue and Weakness
One of the primary symptoms of low hemoglobin is fatigue and weakness. Hemoglobin plays a crucial role in carrying oxygen to body tissues. When hemoglobin levels are low, oxygen delivery to the cells is compromised, leading to a lack of energy and a persistent feeling of tiredness. Simple tasks may become exhausting, and individuals may feel drained even after adequate rest.
Shortness of Breath
Low hemoglobin levels can result in decreased oxygen supply to the body, including the lungs. It can lead to shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or exertion. Individuals may experience difficulty breathing deeply or may feel breathless with minimal effort. The decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood can impact the functioning of the respiratory system.
Pale Skin and Nail Beds
Hemoglobin gives blood its red color, which provides a healthy complexion to the skin. When hemoglobin levels are low, the skin may appear pale or even yellowish. This paleness can be particularly noticeable in the face, lips, and nail beds. In severe cases of anemia, the skin may take on a translucent or washed-out appearance.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat
Another symptom of low hemoglobin level is irregular heartbeat because of the strain on the cardiovascular system. This can lead to a rapid or irregular heartbeat, known as tachycardia or palpitations, respectively. Individuals may feel their heart racing or pounding, even during rest or minimal exertion.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness
If someone has low iron levels, it can cause lightheadedness or dizziness. In this case, the person may feel shaky and have difficulty maintaining balance. These symptoms may worsen when standing up quickly or after prolonged periods of physical activity.
Cold Hands and Feet
Inadequate oxygen supply can lead to the hands and feet becoming cold. This is because low hemoglobin levels can disrupt oxygen circulation, leading to decreased blood flow to these areas. This can cause feelings of persistent coldness, numbness, or tingling sensations in the hands and feet.
Cognitive Difficulties
Insufficient oxygen supply to the brain can affect cognitive function. Someone having low iron levels can experience difficulty in having mental clarity, concentration, or remembering things. They may find it challenging to focus on tasks, experience mental fog, or have slower thinking processes.
Brittle Nails and Hair Loss
In some cases, low hemoglobin levels can result in changes to the nails and hair. Nails may become brittle, weak, or develop ridges. Hair may become thin, brittle, or fall out more easily than usual. These changes occur due to the reduced nutrient supply to the cells responsible for nail and hair growth.
End Word
In conclusion, cancer and low hemoglobin are related but not directly. However, this means that cancer does not directly cause low iron levels. But, it can still cause anemia through other factors associated with the disease.
Bone marrow suppression, chronic inflammation, blood loss, and nutritional deficiencies associated with cancer can all lead to decreased red blood cell production and subsequent low hemoglobin levels.
Managing low hemoglobin in cancer patients requires a multidimensional approach. Therefore it is important for individuals undergoing cancer treatment to have regular blood tests. These can help monitor their hemoglobin levels and address any deficiencies promptly. You can book your diagnostic tests from the Elizabeth diagnostic imaging services, which give proper care and instructions to patients.