What are the Symptoms of Low MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) ?
October 15, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
MCHC stands for Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration, a measure of the average concentration of hemoglobin in a given volume of red blood cells. Low MCHC levels may indicate anemia or other underlying health conditions. Symptoms of low MCHC can include those related to anemia and may vary in severity depending on the cause and the overall health of the individual. Common symptoms of low MCHC include:
- Fatigue and Weakness:
- Persistent tiredness, lack of energy, and feeling weak.
- Pale or Sallow Skin:
- A pale or unhealthy-looking complexion due to reduced hemoglobin levels.
- Shortness of Breath:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, particularly during physical exertion.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness:
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially upon standing up quickly.
- Headaches:
- Frequent headaches, migraines, or tension-type headaches.
- Cold Extremities:
- Hands and feet feeling cold or colder than usual due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
- Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat (Tachycardia):
- An increased heart rate or palpitations.
- Difficulty Concentrating:
- Trouble focusing, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating on tasks.
- Brittle Nails and Hair Loss:
- Nails becoming brittle or weak, and hair thinning or falling out.
- Sensitivity to Cold:
- Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
- Frequent Infections:
- Increased susceptibility to infections due to reduced immune function.
- Pica:
- Cravings for non-food items, such as ice, dirt, or starch, which can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia.
It’s important to note that low MCHC levels can be a result of different types of anemia, including iron-deficiency anemia, thalassemia, sideroblastic anemia, or anemia of chronic disease. The symptoms mentioned above can overlap with other health conditions, so proper diagnosis and medical evaluation are crucial. If you suspect low MCHC levels or anemia, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate testing and diagnosis. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may involve iron supplementation, dietary changes, or other targeted therapies.