When the number of red blood cells in the body becomes very low, it’s called anemia. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body to keep tissues and organs healthy. When anemia occurs, your body tissues and organs don’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood, which can affect your energy levels and how well your body is able to function. 

Some cancer treatments can cause your red blood cell levels to decrease. As you progress through treatment, your blood will be checked regularly for signs of anemia so it can be promptly treated. 

The signs and symptoms of anemia in lung cancer can range from no symptoms in mild anemia to more intense symptoms in severe anemia. When symptoms do occur, they often come on slowly.  

Common signs and symptoms of anemia can include: 

• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Cold, numbness, or tingling in hands and/or feet
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Fast heartbeat
• Problems concentrating or thinking
• Feeling irritable
• Loss of appetite

 Lung cancer treatments that can cause anemia include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. These treatments can create inflammation in the body, which can decrease the production of red blood cells. Chemotherapy can also decrease red blood cells by affecting the bone marrow, where red blood cells are made. 

The risk of anemia is increased if you have any of the following health conditions:

• Low hemoglobin levels before being diagnosed with lung cancer
• Recent chemotherapy or radiotherapy 
• Malnutrition 
• Late-stage, advanced lung cancer 

Your healthcare team can diagnose anemia as early as possible through your routine bloodwork. If your bloodwork shows that you have anemia, they will talk to you about your treatment options.  

Treatment can include:  

• Iron therapy or prescription drugs to help your body make more red blood cells
• Blood transfusion(s) from healthy donor blood to increase your red blood cell count
  
  • You may need multiple transfusions since this treatment is not permanent.

 In addition to treatments from your healthcare team, the following tips can also help you feel better if you have anemia: 

• Eat a healthy diet with lots of protein and iron.
• Get good rest.  
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. 

It’s always a good idea to tell a member of your healthcare team when you notice a side effect from treatment or a symptom that concerns you. Often, these problems can be prevented or eased with their help or through palliative care services. Anemia in lung cancer is a common side effect that is often easily treated. However, sometimes it can cause more serious issues when not treated promptly, and there are times when urgent medical care may be needed.  

If you have any of the following symptoms of anemia, contact your healthcare team without delay: 

• A fever higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit
• Chills 
• Shivering for long periods