Are you experiencing unusual symptoms like persistent fatigue, unexplained bruising, or swollen lymph nodes? These could be signs of an underlying blood disorder. In this blog, we explore the top three reasons why you should consider seeing a hematologist at Health Today in Calgary to protect your blood health. From anemia and clotting disorders to more serious concerns like lymphoma or leukemia, paying attention to these symptoms could lead to early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Don’t ignore the warning signs—your body might be telling you something important. Read on to learn when it's time to seek help from a blood specialist and take control of your health today! Call us for more information.
Blood health is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in keeping our bodies functioning properly. Blood-related issues can manifest in a variety of ways, some of which may seem unrelated to your overall health. When left untreated, these issues can lead to serious complications. Hematologists are specialists who diagnose and treat conditions related to the blood, such as anemia, clotting disorders, and blood cancers like leukemia. Knowing when to see a hematologist can make all the difference in catching a potential problem early and starting the right treatment plan.
If you or a loved one in Calgary is experiencing certain symptoms, it might be time to consider seeing a hematologist. Here are three signs to watch for that suggest you should consult with a blood specialist.
Feeling tired is a normal part of life, especially with busy schedules and the stress of daily responsibilities. However, if you’re experiencing fatigue that lasts for weeks or months, despite getting enough rest, it could be a sign of an underlying blood disorder like anemia. Anemia occurs when your blood doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your body’s tissues. This can leave you feeling weak, dizzy, or short of breath, even during mild activities.
There are different types of anemia, each with its own causes. Iron-deficiency anemia, the most common type, is often due to a lack of iron in your diet, but it can also be a result of blood loss, such as from menstruation or internal bleeding. Other types of anemia can be caused by chronic diseases, vitamin deficiencies, or bone marrow problems.
If your fatigue doesn’t seem to improve with rest, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like pale skin, chest pain, or irregular heartbeats, it’s important to see a hematologist. They can run tests to determine whether anemia or another blood disorder is responsible and help you find a treatment that works for you.
While bruising after an injury is normal, experiencing frequent or unexplained bruises without a clear cause can signal a problem with your blood. This may be due to a low platelet count or a clotting disorder, which prevents your blood from clotting properly. Platelets are small cells in your blood that help stop bleeding by forming clots. When your body doesn’t produce enough platelets, or when they’re not functioning as they should, you may notice excessive bruising or small red dots on your skin (called petechiae), which are signs of bleeding under the skin.
Prolonged bleeding from cuts, nosebleeds that are difficult to stop, or unusually heavy menstrual periods are other signs that your blood may not be clotting as it should. Hemophilia and Von Willebrand disease are two common clotting disorders that can cause these symptoms, but there are many others as well.
If you’re noticing unexplained bruising or prolonged bleeding, a hematologist can perform blood tests to determine whether a clotting disorder or low platelet count is the cause. Once diagnosed, they can help you manage the condition to prevent more serious complications, such as internal bleeding.
Lymph nodes are part of your body’s immune system and are found in various areas, such as your neck, armpits, and groin. While it’s normal for lymph nodes to swell temporarily while you’re fighting an infection, persistent swelling—especially when it’s not associated with a recent illness—could be a sign of something more serious, such as lymphoma or leukemia, both of which are cancers of the blood or bone marrow.
Unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fevers are additional warning signs that should not be ignored. These symptoms may indicate that your body is fighting something more severe than a common virus or infection. Blood cancers like lymphoma or leukemia often present with these symptoms, and early detection is critical for effective treatment.
If you’re experiencing swollen lymph nodes that don’t go away, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms, a hematologist can perform blood tests and imaging to determine if a blood cancer or other serious condition is present. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Your blood plays a vital role in your overall health, and any signs of potential problems should be taken seriously. Persistent fatigue, unexplained bruising or prolonged bleeding, and swollen lymph nodes or weight loss are all symptoms that may indicate an underlying blood disorder. If you or a family member in Calgary is experiencing any of these symptoms, consulting a hematologist can provide valuable insight and treatment options.
Hematologists are specialists who can diagnose and manage blood conditions, helping you regain your health and prevent further complications. Don’t ignore these warning signs—schedule an appointment with a hematologist if you’re concerned about your blood health. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in managing blood disorders and improving your quality of life.
At Health Today Calgary, we’re committed to helping families stay informed about their health and access the care they need. If you’re worried about any blood-related concerns, reach out to our team for guidance on your next steps. Call our clinic if you have further questions about cancer prevention.
Unexplained bruising or prolonged bleeding may indicate low platelet count or a clotting disorder, preventing your blood from clotting properly.
Hematologists perform blood tests, such as complete blood counts (CBC) and clotting tests, to diagnose blood disorders and determine appropriate treatment.
Yes, hematologists specialize in diagnosing and treating blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, working closely with oncologists to provide comprehensive care. Call us if you have any questions!
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