Anemia 101

WHAT IS IT?

A condition marked by a deficiency of red blood cells or of hemoglobin in the blood, resulting in pailor and weariness

Who is affected?

Anemia is the most common blood condition in the U.S. it affects about 3.5 million Americans.

POPULATIONS

• Women 
• People with chronic diseases
• Older adults; at greater risk of development
• Women in childbearing years

What Causes it?

There are over 400 types of anemia, which are divided in three groups

Blood Loss

By Blood Loss

• Gastronomical conditions; ulcers, hemorrhoids 
• Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Menstruation and childbirth 
• Especially if menstrual bleeding is excessive 

Decreased or faulty red blood cell production

CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED

• Sickle cell anemia
• Iron-deficiency anemia -lack of iron
• Vitamin deficiency -lack of b12 and folate
• Bone marrow and stem cell problems
• Other health conditions

A type or anemia, the body may produce too few blood cells or the blood cells may not function correctly

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disorder that affects African-Americans. Red blood cells break down rapidly, so the oxygen does not get to the body's organs, causing anemia. The crescent -shaped red blood cells also get stuck in tiny blood vessels, causing pain

ASSOCIATED WITH OTHER CONDITIONS

• Advanced kidney disease
• Hypothyroidism
• Cancer
• Infection
• Lupus

SYMPTOMS (GENERAL)

• Easy fatigue and loss of energy
• Usually rapid heart beat
• Shortness of breath and headache
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness, pale skin, leg cramps, insomnia

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF...

• Persistent fatigue
• Poor diet or inadequate intake of vitamins
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Concern about environmental exposure to lead
• And more.

DIAGNOSED BY

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Blood iron level
• Levels of vitamin b12 and folate
• Special blood tests
• Reticule type count etc. (blood and urine tests)

TREATMENT

• Fluids
• Blood transfusion
• Oxygen
• Iron
• And more.

The role of the doctor is to perform tests for diagnosis and execute treatment. They would also consult on diet, vitamin and supplement intake.

QUESTIONS?

Risk factors: diet lacking in vitamins, intestinal disorders, menstruation, pregnancy, chronic conditions, family history