Anemia, or iron deficiency is a medical condition in which the body’s red blood count decreases. The illness typically results from the shortage of hemoglobin – the main protein component of a red blood cell. Hemoglobin carries oxygen in the blood. This is why its deficiency can disrupt healthy oxygen levels, triggering a series of unpleasant symptoms. This blog explores anemia in detail, highlighting the triggers, diagnosis, and iron infusion therapy treatment for anemia.
What causes Anemia?
The deficiency of red blood cells can be caused by the following factors:
- The body stops producing enough hemoglobin and red blood cells.
- Excessive bleeding results in a sudden drop in red blood cell levels in the body.
- The body misinterprets its own cells as foreign bodies, eventually destroying them.
Moreover, different types of anemia are associated with different causes. For example:
Iron deficiency anemia
This is the most common form of anemia that is triggered by lack of iron in the body. Since the body requires iron for hemoglobin formation, the process gets hindered when it is not available. Frequent use of aspirins, heavy menstrual flow, ulcers, and cancer are some reasons for iron deficiency in the blood. It can also be accelerated during pregnancy. Therefore, doctors usually prescribe iron supplements to expecting women.
Anemia of Inflammation
Diseases that cause persistent inflammation within the body can also dysregulate red blood cell production. Examples of some inflammatory medical conditions are Crohn’s disease, kidney disorders, HIV/AIDS, cancer, and arthritis.
Aplastic anemia
This is when the body stops making the required amount of healthy red blood cells. This is a rare and fatal health condition. This condition can develop as a reaction to different agents such as medicines, infections, toxins, chemical contact, and autoimmune disorders.
Vitamin deficiency anemia
In addition to iron, the body requires folate and vitamin B-12 to produce a sufficient quantity of healthy red blood cells. A diet lacking these essential nutrients, along with others, may hinder the body’s ability to generate an adequate number of red blood cells. Furthermore, certain individuals may have difficulty absorbing vitamin B-12, which can result in vitamin deficiency anemia, commonly referred to as pernicious anemia.
Bone marrow anemia
Conditions like leukemia and myelofibrosis can influence the blood production process in the bone marrow. The impact of these diseases can vary significantly, from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening complications.
Sickle cell anemia
This hereditary and occasionally severe condition is classified as a form of hemolytic anemia. It is characterized by an atypical hemoglobin that causes red blood cells to assume a distinctive crescent shape, known as a sickle. These abnormal blood cells have a shortened lifespan, leading to a persistent deficiency of red blood cells.
Hemolytic anemia
This category of anemias begins when red blood cells are destroyed at a rate that exceeds the bone marrow’s ability to produce new ones. Various blood disorders can accelerate the destruction of red blood cells. Additionally, certain forms of hemolytic anemia may be hereditary, known as inherited anemia.
Symptoms of Anemia
- Fatigue
- General weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Pale or yellowish complexion, which may be more noticeable on lighter skin tones compared to darker ones
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest discomfort
- Cold extremities
- Headaches
- Lack of focus
- Craving for ice
Diagnosis
To confirm the case of anemia, your healthcare specialist may inquire about your medical history, perform a physical exam, and advise on some tests.
Examples of diagnostic tests for anemia are:
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) determines the number of blood cells present in a blood sample. In the context of anemia, this test evaluates the volume of red blood cells, known as hematocrit, as well as the hemoglobin concentration in the blood.
For adults, normal hemoglobin levels typically range from 14 to 18 grams per deciliter for men and 12 to 16 grams per deciliter for women. Hematocrit values can vary slightly among different medical practices but generally fall between 40% and 52% for men and 35% to 47% for women.
Also, a test may be performed to assess the size and shape of the red blood cells, examining their dimensions, morphology, and color. Other times, your doctor may advise a bone marrow exam to check if the condition is associated with it.
Treatment
Supplements
In cases of mild to moderate anemia, your healthcare provider might suggest prescription supplements. Iron supplements can enhance the iron levels in your body, potentially aiding in the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia. However, these supplements are typically not prescribed for individuals without iron-deficiency anemia, as excessive iron intake can harm your organs. Additionally, Vitamin B12 supplements or injections may be beneficial for those with vitamin B12–deficiency anemia.
Other medicines
Healthcare providers may recommend medications to address anemia, such as Erythropoietin, which aids the bone marrow in increasing the production of blood stem cells. Additionally, if your anemia is due to an autoimmune disorder, you may be given immunosuppressants to prevent your immune system from targeting your red blood cells.
Blood transfusion
A blood transfusion is a widely practiced and safe medical procedure that involves administering blood through an intravenous (IV) line into one of your blood vessels. This is done to increase the quantity of red blood cells in the body. It is essential to meticulously match the donated blood with the recipient’s blood type to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Iron infusion
An intravenous (IV) iron infusion is a medical treatment that involves administering iron directly into the bloodstream via a vein. This procedure may be necessary for individuals with low iron levels or those diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia.
Prevention
While it is true that many forms of anemia cannot be prevented, maintaining a nutritious diet may help avert iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemias. A balanced diet should encompass the following:
- Iron: Foods abundant in iron consist of beef and other meats, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, and dried fruits.
- Folate: This essential nutrient, along with its synthetic counterpart folic acid, is present in fruits and fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables, green peas, kidney beans, peanuts, and enriched grain products such as bread, cereal, pasta, and rice.
- Vitamin B-12: Sources rich in vitamin B-12 include meat, dairy products, as well as fortified cereals and soy products.
- Vitamin C: Foods high in vitamin C include citrus fruits and juices, peppers, broccoli, tomatoes, melons, and strawberries, which also enhance the body’s absorption of iron.
Read Also: What is the Medical Condition and Treatment of Scalp Biopsy?
Conclusion
Anemia, often caused by a lack of iron, is when your body has fewer red blood cells than usual. This happens because there’s not enough hemoglobin in the body, which is the key protein in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen throughout your body. When hemoglobin levels drop, it can mess with your oxygen supply, leading to a bunch of uncomfortable symptoms like drowsiness, pale skin, and headaches.
Blood tests like CBC can be used to diagnose the condition. Once diagnosed, it can be managed and treated with changes in the diet, using dietary supplements and in severe cases, going for blood and iron transfusions. If you or your family members have symptoms of anemia, plan a visit to a primary care clinic in Texas. With timely intervention and early diagnosis, you can heal your anemia and prevent its recurrence in future.
