Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA): Causes, Symptoms & Types

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells. This leads to a shortage of red blood cells, which can cause a number of problems, including:

* Fatigue

* Weakness

* Shortness of breath

* Dizziness

* Headaches

* Pale skin

* Yellow skin or eyes

* Dark urine

* Swollen spleen

* Rapid heart rate

* Low blood pressure

In severe cases, AIHA can be fatal.

There are two main types of AIHA: warm AIHA and cold AIHA. Warm AIHA is more common and occurs when antibodies attack red blood cells at body temperature. Cold AIHA occurs when antibodies attack red blood cells at cold temperatures, such as when a person is exposed to cold weather or water.

Treatment for AIHA typically involves medications to suppress the immune system and prevent it from attacking red blood cells. In some cases, blood transfusions may be necessary to replace lost red blood cells.