8 Symptoms of Myelodysplastic Syndrome

2. Lowered Immunity

People with myelodysplastic syndrome often experience lowered immunity because the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy white blood cells. These cells help the body fight germs and protect against infection. When their levels drop, the body’s defenses become weaker.

As a result, even minor infections can become more serious. A simple cold may develop into pneumonia or take longer than usual to go away. Cuts and scrapes may also become infected more easily and require extra care. Common signs of infection include fever, sore throat, and frequent coughing.

Some people notice that flu-like symptoms last longer than expected or return soon after recovery. In certain cases, infections may occur without clear warning signs. Medicines or vaccines, when appropriate, along with regular monitoring, can help reduce risks and catch problems early.

3. Bleeding

People with myelodysplastic syndrome often bleed more easily than usual because the body does not produce enough healthy platelets. Platelets are the blood cells responsible for helping clots form and stopping bleeding. When platelet levels are low, even minor cuts may take longer to stop bleeding.

Common early signs include frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or heavier-than-usual menstrual periods. Some people also notice easy bruising, even after light bumps. Small red or purple spots on the skin, called petechiae, can appear when tiny blood vessels bleed under the skin and may be one of the first visible signs.

For some, symptoms remain mild, while others may experience bleeding that is harder to control. In more serious cases, internal bleeding can occur and may show up as blood in the urine or stool, which requires prompt attention.

4. Anemia

Anemia is one of the most common features of myelodysplastic syndrome. It happens when the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen throughout the body, so low levels mean tissues receive less oxygen than they need. This often leads to ongoing fatigue or weakness, even after rest.

Shortness of breath during light activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, is also common. Some people may feel dizzy or notice paler skin, although this can be harder to see in darker skin tones. Anemia usually develops gradually, with symptoms that start mild and worsen over time, eventually affecting daily activities.

When oxygen delivery remains low, recovery from minor illnesses may take longer. Blood tests are used to measure red blood cell and hemoglobin levels. If results are low, additional tests can help clarify how well the bone marrow is working.

5. Leukemia

Leukemia can develop when myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) becomes more advanced. In some people, abnormal cells in the bone marrow begin to grow out of control and transform into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This typically occurs when large numbers of immature blood cells, called blasts, build up in the bone marrow and spill into the bloodstream.

As leukemia develops, the production of healthy blood cells drops more sharply. This can lead to more intense symptoms, such as frequent infections, easy bruising, and extreme fatigue. These changes often appear more suddenly compared with the slower progression seen in earlier stages of MDS.

6. Chest Pain

Chest pain can occur in some people with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), most often because of anemia. When the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells, less oxygen reaches the heart muscle.

To compensate, the heart works harder to circulate blood, which can lead to chest discomfort or pain. The pain may feel dull, tight, or heavy and can sometimes spread to the shoulders, neck, or upper back. It often appears during light activity, such as walking or climbing stairs. It may also be accompanied by shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, or a fast heartbeat.

In some cases, infections linked to weakened immunity can also contribute to inflammation and discomfort. Chest pain should be taken seriously, especially if it happens often, worsens with activity, or feels different from usual.

7. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common sign of myelodysplastic syndrome and is often linked to anemia. When the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells, less oxygen is delivered to tissues.

With lower oxygen levels, a person may feel winded even during light activity. When anemia becomes more severe, everyday tasks such as climbing stairs, getting dressed, or doing household chores can lead to breathlessness. Some people may also feel dizzy or weak, especially when standing up or moving quickly.

Because these changes usually develop gradually, they are sometimes mistaken for normal aging or reduced fitness. This type of breathlessness usually results from reduced blood cell production in the bone marrow, not lung or heart disease.

8. Difficulty Controlling Temperature

People with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) may notice changes in how their body regulates temperature. They may feel unusually cold or warm even when the surrounding environment has not changed. These sensations may start off subtle but can become more noticeable as blood cell levels and energy are impacted. When the bone marrow produces fewer healthy red blood cells, less oxygen reaches the tissues. This can make a person feel chilled, especially in the hands and feet. Some people may shiver more easily or feel the need to wear extra layers, even indoors.

Low white blood cell counts can also contribute by increasing the risk of infection. A sudden fever, feelings of overheating, or unexpected sweating can indicate the body’s reaction to illness. Night sweats can also occur and are sometimes linked to inflammation or infection.