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Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS): how to increase red blood cells?
Blood Cancers & Disorders | Last Active: 21 hours ago | Replies (61)Comment receiving replies
Hi @barbwsm We’re all new at this at some point. I see you’ve been a member for several years and it’s your first time writing in so I’d like to officially welcome you to Connect.
If I’m understanding correctly you’ve bene diagnosed with MDS. Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are conditions that can occur when the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow become abnormal. This leads to low numbers of one or more types of blood cells. In your case it appears the production of red blood cells are affected.
Procrit is a medication that can help increase the production of red blood cells which should help get your level back a little higher. At 8.2 I’m guess you’re feeling pretty exhausted and maybe get winded fairly easily. Having more red blood cells will help with those symptoms.
There are several different types of MDS, based on which or how many types of blood cells are affected and other factors. Has your doctor told you anything about the specifics of you diagnosis or offered treatment options?
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My husband was diagnosed with MDS not even 2 years ago and he passed away June 27. He had other issues than the MDS but he also had an extremely low level of red blood cells. He went in to get tested on that Tuesday and his level was 7. They couldn’t give him an appointment until Friday. He went into cardiac arrest during the transfusion and although he was revived 3 times, never woke up.
I’m pleading with anyone who has MDS to stay on top of your blood levels. Personally I partly blame his doctor for not following up on his condition. He went over 3 weeks without a transfusion and it was far too long.
God bless you all and best of luck
Kathy Thomas