Anyone experiencing chest pain due to anemia?

Posted by kellysc @kellysc, Sep 26 2:45am

I am 49 yr old polycythemia patient, diagnosed 2 years ago. I was taking hydroxyurea 500 MG daily. My iron saturation dropped to 8. My chest hurts on the right side, often wakes me up at night. Does anyone else have chest pain due to anemia? I quit taking hydroxyurea and was planning to use phlebotomy as needed to keep my hematocrit under control, but now my iron is so low, I don't think I can do phlebotomy as first line treatment. I am concerned about the chest pain and was wondering if this is just another side effect of PV I need to get used to?

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Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | Sep 27 8:21am

Hi @kellysc. When there’s a reduced amount of oxygen rich blood cells circulating throughout the body, people with anemia can experience side effects like fatigue and shortness of breath. Chest pain can also be a symptom of anemia as well in some people. I experienced that myself briefly a few years ago and it was unsettling.

It’s important though to rule out any actual heart related issues and not just attribute this to having anemia. Have you mentioned this to your hematologist/oncologist? Are they aware that you discontinued taking the hydroxyurea?

kellysc | @kellysc | Sep 27 9:36am

In reply to @loribmt "Hi @kellysc. When there’s a reduced amount of oxygen rich blood cells circulating throughout the body,..." + (show)

@loribmt
Thank you, Lori! I am scheduled for a heart ultrasound on Monday. Yes, my doctor does know I quit taking Hydroxyurea. I just needed a break. I would love to manage my PV with phlebotomy alone. Thank you for your very kind and helpful responses to so many of us on this discussion board. ❤️

Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | Sep 27 9:42am

In reply to @kellysc "@loribmt Thank you, Lori! I am scheduled for a heart ultrasound on Monday. Yes, my doctor..." + (show)

@kellysc Wishing you only good news on Monday! It’ll be a relief for you to know your heart is in tip top shape! ♥️ Does your doctor have any thoughts on whether to go forward with the phlebotomies?

kellysc | @kellysc | Sep 27 11:50am

The doctor suggested trying a different drug. I have tried Jakafi and didn't like it, but I may have to go back to it. I wouldn't mind low iron except for the chest pain. The doctor said I could try phlebotomy until it's no longer feasible bc of anemia.

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