What is bone marrow suppression from cancer?

The symptoms of low blood counts depend on which parts of the blood are affected.

Red blood cells

A low level of red blood cells may make you:

• Feel weak and get tired more easily.
• Feel dizzy or short of breath.
• Have headaches.
• Look very pale.
• Have trouble concentrating.

White blood cells

A low level of white blood cells raises the risk of infection of your skin and organs. Signs of infection include:

• A fever. Fever is a common symptom of infection. It may be the only symptom. If your white blood cell level is low and you develop a fever, call your doctor right away.
• A rash.
• Diarrhea.
• A cough or sore throat.
• Pain or burning when you urinate.
• Other problems such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness of your skin.
  • Red streaks leading from a wound.
  • Pus draining from a wound.

Platelets

A low level of platelets may cause abnormal bleeding. Symptoms include:

• Easy bruising.
• Nosebleeds or bleeding gums.
• Tiny red or purple spots on the skin.
• Bloody or pink urine.
• Bloody or black stools, or rectal bleeding.
• Vaginal bleeding that is different (heavier, more frequent, at a different time of the month) than what you are used to.

Tell your doctor right away about any new or changing symptoms during your cancer treatment.