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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Low RBC Count And Shortness Of Breath?

I'm 64, and have recently been diagnosed with a low red blood cell count, anemia, and scheduled for a colonoscopy. I'am a runner, having run 4 marathons. I recently noticed that I have a problem getting winded and short of breath. I'm a little concerned about what might be going on besides the fact I'am getting older but still fairly active, and working 40 hours a week?
Sat, 21 Jul 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello and welcome to ask a doctor service. I reviewed your query and here is my answer.
As you said you are anemic, so that's causing your shortness of breath and all symptoms. But the cause for anemia should be ruled out. How much is your MCV, PALTELET COUNT, WBC COUNT AND HEMOGLOBIN on full blood count test? How is the color of your stool? Have you done stool for occult blood test? I think your doctor has scheduled you for colonscopy after ruling out all other causes of anemia and should have done the above tests. As you are old so there are chances of malignancy but first all other causes should be ruled out.
Hooe i answered your question. Feel free to ask if you need further help or have any doubt. Thanks.
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What Causes Low RBC Count And Shortness Of Breath?

Hello and welcome to ask a doctor service. I reviewed your query and here is my answer. As you said you are anemic, so that s causing your shortness of breath and all symptoms. But the cause for anemia should be ruled out. How much is your MCV, PALTELET COUNT, WBC COUNT AND HEMOGLOBIN on full blood count test? How is the color of your stool? Have you done stool for occult blood test? I think your doctor has scheduled you for colonscopy after ruling out all other causes of anemia and should have done the above tests. As you are old so there are chances of malignancy but first all other causes should be ruled out. Hooe i answered your question. Feel free to ask if you need further help or have any doubt. Thanks.