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What Causes Weakness And Tiredness When Suffering From Anemia?
Question: I had a radical nephrectomy last July, a total hysterectomy this February. I thought I was doing relatively well though I never did bubble over with energy. But 2 weeks ago I had an apicoectomy and had an abscess removed from my jaw bone. I only had mild sedation. I find myself totally wiped out most of the time and am exhausted with a simple trip to the store or the doctor. Is this normal? I walk every day but there are times my legs just feel so weak. My last blood tests were 2 weeks ago and they were perfect. Ideas?
Brief Answer:
Anemia is the most probable cause of symptoms.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I would think of three possibilities to explain your symptoms:
1. The symptoms of weakness and tiredness are commonly seen in anemia.
You need to get a complete hemogram done along with peripheral blood examination.
The hemoglobin levels have to be assessed.
In case anemia is detected, the symptoms are probably due to low hemoglobin.
2. Your past history shows that you have had radical nephrectomy probably due to a cancer.
Recurrence of cancer in other kidney or distant metastasis could be another reason for constitutional symptoms of tiredness and weakness.
You also need to consult your nephrologist for assessment of your other kidney.
3. Since, you have had recent minor surgery on the jaw, there could be infection.
If infection is present it will show up on routine hemogram.
These are most probable reasons for your symptoms. I suggest you visit your primary healthcareprovider and plan necessary investigations. We can plan its action accordingly.
If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Anemia is the most probable cause of symptoms.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I would think of three possibilities to explain your symptoms:
1. The symptoms of weakness and tiredness are commonly seen in anemia.
You need to get a complete hemogram done along with peripheral blood examination.
The hemoglobin levels have to be assessed.
In case anemia is detected, the symptoms are probably due to low hemoglobin.
2. Your past history shows that you have had radical nephrectomy probably due to a cancer.
Recurrence of cancer in other kidney or distant metastasis could be another reason for constitutional symptoms of tiredness and weakness.
You also need to consult your nephrologist for assessment of your other kidney.
3. Since, you have had recent minor surgery on the jaw, there could be infection.
If infection is present it will show up on routine hemogram.
These are most probable reasons for your symptoms. I suggest you visit your primary healthcareprovider and plan necessary investigations. We can plan its action accordingly.
If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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