blood disorders
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Symptoms of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Some people with autoimmune hemolytic anemia may have no symptoms, especially when the destruction of red blood cells is mild and develops gradually. Others have symptoms similar to those that occur with other types of anemia (such as fatigue, weakness, and paleness), especially when the destruction is more severe or rapid. Symptoms of severe or rapid destruction of red blood cells may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), fever, chest pain, fainting, symptoms of Heart Failure (HF) (eg, shortness of breath), and even death. When destruction persists for a few months or longer, the spleen may enlarge, resulting in a sense of abdominal fullness and, occasionally, discomfort. In people with cold antibody hemolytic anemia, the hands and feet may be cold or bluish. When the cause of autoimmune hemolytic anemia is another disorder, symptoms of the underlying disorder, such as swollen and tender lymph nodes or fever, may dominate. People with paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria may have severe pain in the back and legs, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea. The urine may be dark brown. 