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March 20, 2023

Anemia is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet it is often overlooked or misunderstood. Anemia occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This can result in a variety of symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Anemia can be caused by a range of factors, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, and genetic conditions. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for anemia, as well as provide tips for preventing this common condition.

 

Whether you have been diagnosed with anemia or are simply interested in learning more about this condition, read on to discover what you need to know.

 

What is Anemia and How Does It Affect the Body?

 

Anemia occurs when the number of red blood cells in your body is insufficient, or when these cells fail to function properly. Since red blood cells transport oxygen throughout your body, your cells require oxygen to generate energy. When your red blood cells are unable to fulfill this function, your body is deprived of the energy it requires to operate. Although some forms of anemia may be brief and mild, others can persist indefinitely. Neglecting to treat anemia can be life-threatening.

 

Upon the onset of anemia, an individual is described as anemic, experiencing symptoms such as persistent fatigue and feeling chilly. Anemia's impact varies among individuals:

 

• Newborns. Some infants are born with diminished red blood cell counts. Most newborns do not require medical intervention for anemia; however, severe cases may necessitate blood transfusions.
• Infants. When infants begin eating solid food, they may consume less iron than required. Iron from solid foods is not absorbed as readily as that from breast milk or formula. Lethargy is a common symptom exhibited by infants with anemia.
• Children. During the period between birth and age 2, children experience rapid growth, requiring increased iron intake. Children with anemia may face related issues such as delayed development of motor skills and learning difficulties.
• Pregnant women. Pregnant women may experience iron-deficiency anemia, which heightens the possibility of complications like premature birth or giving birth to underweight infants.
• Women and people designated female at birth (DFAB). Menstrual bleeding or conditions like uterine fibroids can lead to blood loss and subsequent anemia among women and people DFAB.
• People aged 65 and older. Older adults are at an increased risk of developing anemia due to iron-poor diets and chronic illnesses. Anemia can further complicate heart disease or reduce mobility, leading to confusion or depression.
• People with chronic conditions. Certain chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases or cancer heighten the risk of anemia, referred to as anemia of chronic disease.

 

Anemia is a widespread condition affecting individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnicities across the world. It is estimated that about one-third of the global population suffers from anemia, making it one of the most prevalent nutritional deficiencies worldwide. The condition disproportionately affects women and young children, particularly in developing countries where iron-deficient diets and inadequate healthcare access are common. Anemia's high prevalence and far-reaching impact on human health highlight the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts to mitigate its adverse effects.

 

 

The Different Types of Anemia

 

To further assist in understanding anemia, we must know the different types of the condition. They are as follows:

 

Nutritional Anemias

 

• Pernicious anemia. An autoimmune condition that inhibits the absorption of vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency of this vital nutrient.
• Iron-deficiency anemia. A condition where the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
• Megaloblastic anemia. A type of anemia resulting from a deficiency of vitamin B12 and/or folate, leading to the production of abnormally large and immature red blood cells.

 

Inherited Anemias

 

• Sickle cell anemia. This condition causes a change in the shape of red blood cells, transforming them from round, flexible discs into stiff and sticky sickle cells that obstruct blood flow.
• Fanconi anemia. This is a rare blood disorder, and anemia is one of the symptoms of Fanconi anemia.
• Diamond-Blackfan anemia. This inherited disorder prevents the bone marrow from producing enough red blood cells.

 

Anemias Caused by Abnormal Red Blood Cells

 

• Hemolytic anemia. This type of anemia occurs when the red blood cells break down or die at a faster rate than they are produced.
• Aplastic anemia. This form of anemia happens when there aren't enough stem cells in the bone marrow to produce adequate red blood cells.
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia. In this type of anemia, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys red blood cells.
• Sideroblastic anemia. This anemia occurs when the body has too much iron in the system and not enough healthy red blood cells.
• Macrocytic anemia. In macrocytic anemia, the bone marrow produces large, immature red blood cells.
• Microcytic anemia. This type of anemia occurs when the red blood cells are smaller than normal due to insufficient hemoglobin.
• Normocytic anemia. This type of anemia is characterized by a deficiency in the number of red blood cells, which also have a lower than normal amount of hemoglobin.

 

Symptoms of Anemia

 

Anemia can manifest in a variety of symptoms, many of which are related to the body's decreased oxygen levels. The most common symptom is persistent fatigue or weakness, which can affect an individual's daily routine and lead to a lack of productivity. Other common symptoms include shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, pale skin, and an irregular heartbeat. Anemia can also cause cold hands and feet, difficulty concentrating, and even chest pain or angina in severe cases. Identifying these symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can help diagnose and manage anemia effectively.

 

Image from Verywell Health

 

Here is a list of other common sypmtoms to look out for: 

 

• Dyspnea (shortness of breath): This refers to the sensation of being unable to take a deep breath or feeling breathless.
• Lightheadedness: This is a feeling of dizziness or unsteadiness when standing up or moving around.
• Arrhythmia (fast or irregular heartbeat): This is a sensation of your heart racing or skipping beats.
• Pulsatile tinnitus: This is the perception of a rhythmic, swooshing sound in the ear.
• Headaches: Anemia resulting from iron deficiency or low hemoglobin levels may cause headaches.
• Pale or jaundiced skin: The skin may appear unusually pale or yellow in color.
• Chest discomfort: This can present as a sensation of pressure or tightness in the chest.

 

Anemia Treatments

 

The treatment options for anemia vary depending on the type of anemia a person has, but the goal of each treatment is to increase the number of red blood cells in the body and improve oxygen levels in the blood. Common treatments for different types of anemia are as follows:

 

• Iron-deficiency anemia can be treated with iron supplements and dietary changes, while excessive bleeding is addressed by a doctor.
• Vitamin deficiency anemia can be treated with dietary supplements and vitamin B12 injections.
• Folic acid supplements, iron chelation, blood transfusions, and bone marrow transplants may be used to treat Thalassemia.
• Treatment for aplastic anemia involves blood transfusions or bone marrow transplants.
• For sickle cell anemia, doctors may prescribe oxygen therapy, pain relief medication, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, folic acid supplements, blood transfusions, and hydroxyurea, a cancer drug.
• Hemolytic anemia may require immunosuppressant drugs, treatments for infections, and plasmapheresis, which filters the blood.

 

Can Anemia Be Prevented?

 

Preventing certain types of anemia, such as sickle cell anemia, hemolytic anemia, and aplastic anemia, is not possible. However, individuals with chronic illnesses should monitor for anemia symptoms. Nutritional anemias can be avoided by maintaining a healthy diet.

 

Anemia is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, causing fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, many people with anemia can lead healthy and active lives. From iron-deficiency anemia to pernicious anemia, there are different types of anemia, each with its own causes and treatment options. By understanding the signs and symptoms of anemia and seeking medical attention when necessary, individuals can take control of their health and manage this condition effectively. Remember, a healthy diet rich in nutrients, such as iron and vitamin B12, can help prevent nutritional anemias.

 

If you have concerns about anemia or are experiencing symptoms, don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider for guidance and support.