Symptoms of beta thalassemia range from mild to severe. In addition, people who are carriers of the disease may not show any symptoms at all beyond a mild anemia that is often only determined after a blood test. Severe symptoms of beta thalassemia typically appear in the first two years of life. They include fatigue, jaundice, and dark urine.
An Introduction to Symptoms of Beta Thalassemia
The symptoms of
beta thalassemia will depend on the type and severity of the disease. Symptoms typically occur when oxygen does not get to various parts of the body due to low hemoglobin and a shortage of red blood cells in the blood (this is called anemia). Signs and symptoms are considered severe in beta
thalassemia major and less severe in beta thalassemia intermedia.
Mild Symptoms of Beta Thalassemia
Some people are "silent carriers" of beta thalassemia and do not have any symptoms. People who are silent carriers have beta thalassemia trait. They often have mild anemia, which is only diagnosed through a blood test.
Moderate Symptoms of Beta Thalassemia
Individuals with beta thalassemia intermedia may not have any symptoms, or their symptoms may be mild throughout childhood and adolescence.
Severe Symptoms of Beta Thalassemia
Severe symptoms of beta thalassemia major appear in the first two years of life. Possible symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin or jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
- Protruding abdomen with enlarged spleen and liver
- Dark urine
- Abnormal facial bones and poor growth
- A poor appetite.
Adolescents with the severe form of beta thalassemia may experience delayed puberty.
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