What is anemia?
Anemia occurs when you do not have enough red blood cells or when your red blood cells do not function properly. Red blood cells transport oxygen throughout your body. Oxygen fuels your cells and provides energy. Your body cannot function without healthy red blood cells that perform their functions. Some types of anemia are temporary and mild, while others can last a lifetime. Anemia can be fatal if left untreated.
What is the most common cause of anemia?
Certain types of anemia can be inherited, or people can develop anemia due to chronic diseases. Iron-deficiency anemia, the most common type, is caused by a poor diet.
Types of Anemia
There are several types of anemia, each with distinct symptoms. Iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency anemia are two common types of anemia.
• Anemia of aplastic anemia
• Anemia due to hemolysis
Symptoms
Fatigue is the most common symptom of anemia. Other common symptoms are as follows: Reliable Source:
• Pale complexion • rapid or irregular heartbeat • shortness of breath • chest pain • headache • lightheadedness
Diagnosis
There are several methods for diagnosing anemia, but the most common involves a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). This test assesses a variety of factors, including:
• Hematocrit levels, which involve comparing RBC volume to total blood volume; • hemoglobin levels; and • RBC count
It is important to remember that you are not alone.
Some types of anemia are temporary and mild, while others can last a lifetime. Anemia can be managed in a variety of ways, including:
• Maintaining a healthy diet:
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Regular physical activity:
• Reducing your exposure to certain chemicals:
• Washing your hands frequently to prevent infection:
• Taking good care of your teeth and visiting the dentist regularly:
• Keeping track of your symptoms and informing your healthcare provider of any changes.
What are the causes of anemia?
Certain factors may increase your chances of developing anemia. These include: • consuming a diet deficient in iron, folate, or vitamin B-12
• having menstrual cycles
• Pregnancy
• being over 65 years old •
Treatment
Anemia can be treated using a variety of methods. Each aims to raise an individual's RBC count, which raises the amount of oxygen in the blood.
The treatment required is determined by the type of anemia a person has. The following are some treatments for common types of anemia:
• Iron deficiency anemia: Iron supplements and dietary changes can help; if excessive bleeding is present, a doctor will identify and treat the underlying cause.
• Vitamin deficiency anemia can be treated with dietary supplements and vitamin B12 injections.
• Thalassemia: Treatments include folic acid supplements from trusted sources, iron chelation, and, in some cases, blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants.
• Anemia caused by a chronic disease: The doctor will concentrate on treating the underlying condition.
• Aplastic anemia: Aplastic anemia is treated with blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants.
• Sickle cell anemia is treated with oxygen therapy, pain relievers, and intravenous fluids. Folic acid supplements, blood transfusions, and hydroxyurea, a cancer treatment.
• Hemolytic anemia: Treatment may include immunosuppressive drugs, infection treatments, and plasmapheresis, which filters the blood.
