Learn about Myelodysplastic Syndrome and its symptoms.

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a group of disorders in which the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells. Over time, this can lead to low levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which in turn cause a range of symptoms. Many people in the United States first notice vague changes—tiring more easily, catching colds more often, or bruising after minor bumps—that can be mistaken for normal aging. Understanding the pattern and persistence of these changes can help you discuss them promptly with a clinician.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

Recognizing symptoms of myelodysplastic syndrome

Symptoms often reflect which blood cell type is most affected. When red blood cells are low (anemia), common experiences include ongoing fatigue, lightheadedness, shortness of breath with routine activity, headaches, or looking pale. Some people notice they need more breaks during walks or feel winded climbing stairs that used to be easy.

If white blood cells—especially neutrophils—are low (neutropenia), the body may struggle to fight germs. This can show up as frequent or lingering infections, fevers without a clear source, or infections that seem more severe than usual. Recurrent sinus issues, chest infections, or urinary tract infections may occur more often than expected.

Low platelets (thrombocytopenia) commonly lead to easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or tiny pinpoint spots under the skin called petechiae. Bleeding may last longer after small cuts or dental cleanings. While these signs can have other causes, a pattern of unusual bruising or bleeding warrants medical attention.

Understanding myelodysplastic syndrome symptoms

MDS symptoms arise because the bone marrow produces too few healthy, mature cells. Immature or abnormal cells crowd the marrow, so fewer functional red cells, white cells, and platelets enter the bloodstream. The result can be a combination of anemia symptoms, infection risk, and bleeding issues that vary over time and from person to person.

Risk factors for developing MDS include older age, prior chemotherapy or radiation, long-term exposure to certain chemicals (such as benzene), and smoking. Many people have no clear exposure history, and having one or more risk factors does not mean MDS will develop. What matters most is recognizing persistent changes and following up with a professional evaluation.

Evaluation typically starts with a complete blood count (CBC) and a review of a blood smear. If results suggest MDS, additional testing—often including a bone marrow biopsy—helps confirm the diagnosis and identify specific subtypes. Genetic and chromosomal studies can guide prognosis and treatment planning. Your care team may also check for other conditions (like vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, or medication effects) that can mimic or worsen similar symptoms.

When to seek care: schedule an appointment if you have persistent fatigue that interferes with normal activities, frequent or unusual infections, or recurrent bruising or bleeding without clear cause. Seek urgent care for warning signs such as chest pain, severe shortness of breath at rest, confusion, a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher that does not respond to usual measures, or uncontrolled bleeding.

Common signs of myelodysplastic syndrome

Because MDS affects different blood lines, signs can appear in day-to-day routines:

• Feeling unusually tired after simple tasks or needing naps more often.
• Shortness of breath or a racing heartbeat with light exertion.
• Pale skin or gums noticed by you or others.
• Recurrent colds, sinus symptoms, or infections that need repeated antibiotics.
• Fevers that are hard to explain or keep returning.
• Easy bruising, bleeding gums when brushing teeth, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding after small cuts.
• Tiny red or purple skin spots (petechiae), especially on the legs or arms.

Keep track of patterns: note how long symptoms last, what makes them better or worse, and whether they are changing. Share this information with your clinician, who can decide if testing is needed. If MDS is diagnosed, treatment plans are personalized and may include careful monitoring, supportive care (such as transfusions or medications to boost blood counts), and—depending on health status and goals—therapies that target the marrow, reduce infection risk, or manage bleeding. Decisions are individualized and may change over time based on test results and response.

In the United States, coordinated care often involves a primary care clinician working with a hematologist. Regular follow-up helps adjust plans, monitor blood counts, and address new symptoms promptly. Vaccinations, infection-prevention habits (like handwashing), and reporting new bruising or fevers early can help reduce complications.

Conclusion

Myelodysplastic syndrome affects the bone marrow’s ability to make healthy blood cells, leading to symptoms tied to anemia, infection risk, and bleeding. Noticing persistent patterns—tiredness that feels new, frequent infections, or unusual bruising—can prompt timely evaluation. With appropriate assessment and ongoing care, many people manage symptoms and maintain daily activities while their care team monitors changes over time.