Some people have anemia even if they have normal number of red blood cells. The problem lies in their RBCs not having enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin plays a big role in transporting oxygen to your cells. It is an iron-rich protein that gives your blood its red color.
Causes
There are three main causes of anemia. They are:
- Blood loss from wounds, heavy menstrual periods or bleeding in your digestive and urinary tract;
- Lack of red blood cell production by your body; and
- Fast destruction of red blood cells, more than what is being produced.
Other factors that contribute to the development of anemia include not getting enough iron, folate, or vitamin B12; other diseases or conditions; lack of a certain hormone; and pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms
If you have mild or moderate anemia, you may not feel something is wrong or you may have mild symptoms.
The most common symptom of anemia is getting easily tired or fatigued. Other signs and symptoms may include paleness, dizziness, headache, shortness of breath and cold hands or feet. You may also experience chest pains because your heart has to pump harder to meet your body’s need for oxygen.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If your doctor suspects that you have anemia, he or she will order a complete blood count (CBC). When anemia is confirmed, your doctor may also recommend other tests to determine the cause of your condition.
Treatment of anemia depends on the type and cause of your condition. If your anemia is caused by lack of iron in your body, your doctor may recommend that you include more iron-containing foods in your diet such as red meats, liver, peas, tofu and dark green leafy vegetables.
Your doctor may also recommend taking dietary supplements. However, taking too much of a certain supplement for your anemia may lead to complications. You should follow your doctor’s prescription.
When another condition or health problem is causing your anemia, your doctor will treat the underlying condition, as well.
For severe cases of anemia, other treatment procedures may be recommended by your healthcare provider. Some of the treatment procedures available include blood transfusion, blood and marrow stem cell transplantation, and surgery. Your doctor will be able to explain to you the different treatment options for your anemia.
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References:
Anemia. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine (NLM). Available at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/anemia.html. Accessed on December 1, 2010
Anemia. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Available at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/anemia/anemia_whatis.html. Accessed on December 1, 2010
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