What Are Symptoms and Complications of Beta Thalassemia?

Beta thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder. It may cause you to have not enough hemoglobin, which is a protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen. This may cause anemia, when your body is unable to carry enough oxygen throughout the body.

Some people carry the trait but do not have symptoms, but they can still pass on the trait to children. For people who have symptoms, beta thalassemia may range from mild to severe.

What are symptoms of anemia?

“Severe anemia is the main complication related to more aggressive forms of beta thalassemia,” says Jonathan Feld, MD, Hematology Specialist at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

Symptoms of anemia can include:

• Weakness

• Low energy

• Dizziness

• Cold hands and feet

• Irregular heartbeat

• Whooshing in ears

• Pale skin, eyes, and nails

• Chest pain

• Headache

What are complications of beta thalassemia?

Long-term anemia can affect many parts of your body. Your organs need oxygen from the blood in order to function at their best. 

Complications of beta thalassemia may include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

• Gallstones

• Difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Hormone issues

• Bone changes

• Numbness in hands and feet

• Heart issues

• Increased infections

• Enlarged liver

• Enlarged spleen

“Treatments for beta thalassemia can help reduce the risk of complications by improving the anemia and leading to better red blood cell circulation,” says Dr. Feld.