This page is part of a frame-set. In PNH the red blood cells are weak and are thus destroyed more rapidly than normal. Each episode of dark urine usually lasts for a few days and attacks may occur very occasionally or very often. During an attack of dark urine many patients have mild abdominal discomfort. If the pain is severe then patients should contact their Haematologist.
Many patients are unable to swallow food or even liquid when an attack is at it's most severe.
This usually passes off quite quickly. Some patients with PNH never have attacks of dark urine. In most patients the body is able to adjust quite well to the anaemia because it's onset is usually gradual. Patients with PNH should take the vitamin folic acid each day because the body needs folic acid to help replace the destroyed red cells. Some patients also need to take iron tablets.