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What Causes Extreme Weakness, Fatigue And Numbness During Periods?
Brief Answer:
I suspect severe anemia from loss of blood during your period.
Detailed Answer:
Hello today, and I hope I can answer your question.
Blood loss from menstruation can cause a low blood count, called anemia, that can sometimes be so severe it can be necessary for women to even have a blood transfusion to correct it. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath and fatigue. I do not know how long you have had heavy periods, or how long they last, or the last time you had your blood count checked by a doctor. However, just taking an over the counter iron supplement may not be enough to compensate for the blood loss from your period. In addition, if you have any other medical problems, such as obesity or heart disease, the anemia can even put you at risk for a heart attack if it is severe.
I would encourage you to see a GYN doctor to further evaluate your condition.
I would recommend the following tests to evaluate you:
1. A CBC (complete blood count) to evaluate if you are anemic
2. A complete history and physical, including a pelvic examination to check the size, shape and condition of your uterus
3. An ultrasound of your uterus to help check why your bleeding is so heavy.
There are treatments for heavy periods that a GYN doctor can offer you. depending on your age and condition. Some are medical and some are surgical. In addition, there are prescription iron supplements, and even IV iron, that may be more effective than the supplement you are taking. The results of the combination of the tests I mentioned, plus a detailed history of your menstrual problems, can determine what is the correct treatment for you.
So in summary, I am most concerned that your blood loss from your period may be causing these abnormal symptoms. I encourage you see a doctor to perform these tests and hopefully find the right treatment for you.
If you ever pass out from fatigue or dizziness, or feel short of breath, or chest pain, please go to an emergency room or call 911.
I hope this information was helpful and you seek medical care to fully evaluate this problem.
Sincerely, Dr. Brown
I suspect severe anemia from loss of blood during your period.
Detailed Answer:
Hello today, and I hope I can answer your question.
Blood loss from menstruation can cause a low blood count, called anemia, that can sometimes be so severe it can be necessary for women to even have a blood transfusion to correct it. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath and fatigue. I do not know how long you have had heavy periods, or how long they last, or the last time you had your blood count checked by a doctor. However, just taking an over the counter iron supplement may not be enough to compensate for the blood loss from your period. In addition, if you have any other medical problems, such as obesity or heart disease, the anemia can even put you at risk for a heart attack if it is severe.
I would encourage you to see a GYN doctor to further evaluate your condition.
I would recommend the following tests to evaluate you:
1. A CBC (complete blood count) to evaluate if you are anemic
2. A complete history and physical, including a pelvic examination to check the size, shape and condition of your uterus
3. An ultrasound of your uterus to help check why your bleeding is so heavy.
There are treatments for heavy periods that a GYN doctor can offer you. depending on your age and condition. Some are medical and some are surgical. In addition, there are prescription iron supplements, and even IV iron, that may be more effective than the supplement you are taking. The results of the combination of the tests I mentioned, plus a detailed history of your menstrual problems, can determine what is the correct treatment for you.
So in summary, I am most concerned that your blood loss from your period may be causing these abnormal symptoms. I encourage you see a doctor to perform these tests and hopefully find the right treatment for you.
If you ever pass out from fatigue or dizziness, or feel short of breath, or chest pain, please go to an emergency room or call 911.
I hope this information was helpful and you seek medical care to fully evaluate this problem.
Sincerely, Dr. Brown
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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