Anemia

Description

Anemia is a condition characterized by lack of red blood cells. The function of these red blood cells is to carry and supply oxygen throughout the body, therefore, a lack of healthy red blood cells results in inadequate circulation of oxygen throughout the body. Anemia can be temporary or long term and it can be mild or severe.

Causes

Known causes of anemia are:

Insufficient production of erythropoietin, a hormone required for production of red blood cells,
Deficiency of folate, vitamin B12, or iron,
Hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormones),
Accidents,
Gastrointestinal lesions,
Menstruation,
Childbirth,
Surgery,
Cirrhosis,
Hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells),
Disorders of liver and spleen,
G6PD deficiency (genetic disorder),
Thalassemia (abnormal hemoglobin structure).

Risk factors

Prominent risk factors of anemia are:

A diet lacking iron, folate, and vitamin B12,
Intestinal disorders,
Heavy menstruation,
Pregnancy,
Chronic diseases,
Family history,
Age,
Blood diseases,
Autoimmune disorders.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of anemia are:

Fatigue,
Weakness,
Pale skin,
Irregular heartbeat,
Shortness of breath,
Dizziness,
Chest pain,
Cold hands and feet,
Headache,
Growth problems in children,
Unusual cravings for ice, clay, or dirt,
Brittle nails,
Constipation,
Enlarged spleen.

Diagnosis

To reach a diagnosis, your doctor will take your detailed medical, menstrual, and family history, will ask questions regarding your diet, your racial origin and religion since these are good predictors of the type of diet a person takes, will recommend you get a few laboratory investigations like CBC, serum iron levels, vitamin B12 test, folic acid test, and stool test done, and will ask specific questions regarding your symptoms.

Management

Treatment depends upon the underlying diagnosis.

- Iron supplements may be used for iron deficiency.

- Vitamin B supplements may be used for low vitamin level.

- Blood transfusions may be used for blood loss.

- Medications may be used to induce production of red blood cells if the body's blood production is reduced.

When to consult a doctor?

A doctor should be consulted if:

If one suspects signs and symptoms of anemia like feeling tired all the time, even after having proper sleep.
If the medication prescribed by the doctor is causing any side effects.
Inform your doctor if the medicines prescribed are not effective in managing the symptoms.