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Hydroxyurea causing mild anemia
Hi , diagnosed with ET been on HU for nearly 9 years to control my high platelets.
Anytime my platelets creep back up to over 400k my Dr. adds a pill.
For the 1st time I now have mild anemia.
2 questions: do you eventually adjust to the increased dose and best ways to up the RBC .
I have never had symptoms of ET and HU has never bothered me.
Have no symptoms of anemia either.
Anyone else experience this?
Thanks, MJ
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The ET road is different for all of us. I sense you feel frustrated with your doctor. Is getting a second opinion possible? Having an oncologist you really trust is the key to finding the care that's optimal for you.
It would be wonderful if we had a medication that only lowered platelet production. Instead, we have HU, which over time can also reduce our white and red blood cell counts. It's not uncommon to see these effects over time.
A good oncologist monitors and balances these changes.
It's great you've never had any symptoms of ET. Who knows? You may be an exception! Generally, though, ET's risk factors must be taken seriously.
Platelet-heavy blood means greater vulnerability to blood clots. And platelet overproduction stresses our bone marrow. So I'm grateful for HU, imperfect as it may be.
Hope you will find the way forward that's best for you, MJ!
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1 ReactionI’ve been on HU for 3 yrs with ET. My platelets fluctuate and my doc makes minor adjustments every few months to the dosage.
I’m scheduled for knee replacement surgery and my leg pain could have contributed to a higher recent count so I’m taking 1 additional pill.
Anything you’re experiencing will affect every system in your body.
Pls make sure your doc knows EVERYTHING going on with your entire body - not just their specialty.
Also, tell your doc every prescription, vitamin / dosage you’re taking, and changes to your diet.
Good luck.