Signs of G6PD deficiency

G6PD helps red blood cells handle oxidative stress. In deficiency, an infection, certain medicines, or some foods may trigger red-cell destruction in susceptible people. The resulting anaemia can cause unusual tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, and shortness of breath. Breakdown of red cells can also lead to yellow skin or eyes and dark urine.

Some people learn they have G6PD deficiency after newborn screening, family testing, or an episode of anaemia. These symptoms can have other causes, so they should not be used to diagnose the condition by themselves.

Tell every doctor and pharmacist if you have known or suspected G6PD deficiency before taking a new medicine. Keep a record of symptoms, recent infections, foods, and medicines. A blood test can help assess red-cell health and support diagnosis, although testing may need careful timing after an episode. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice.

Seek urgent care for severe breathlessness, chest discomfort, fainting, confusion, extreme weakness, rapidly worsening yellowing, or urine that becomes very dark. A baby who becomes unusually sleepy, feeds poorly, or looks yellow needs prompt assessment. Bring the names or packages of recent medicines and explain when the changes began.

Ask which medicines and foods may be unsafe for you, whether relatives should be tested, when a blood test is useful, and how to recognise red-cell breakdown early.