Description

Anemia is a condition in which the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) to deliver adequate oxygen to tissues. Types of Anemia 1. Iron-Deficiency Anemia (Most Common) Cause: Low iron levels (due to poor diet, blood loss, or malabsorption). Symptoms: Fatigue, pale skin, brittle nails, cravings for non-food items (pica). 2. Vitamin Deficiency Anemia (Megaloblastic Anemia) Caused by: Lack of vitamin B12 or folate (B9). Symptoms: Weakness, tingling in hands/feet (B12 deficiency), glossitis (swollen tongue). 3. Hemolytic Anemia Cause: RBCs are destroyed faster than they're made (due to autoimmune diseases, infections, or genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia or thalassemia). 4. Aplastic Anemia Cause: Bone marrow fails to produce enough RBCs (due to toxins, radiation, or autoimmune conditions). 5. Anemia of Chronic Disease Linked to: Chronic illnesses (e.g., kidney disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis). Common Symptoms Fatigue & weakness Pale or yellowish skin Shortness of breath Dizziness or lightheadedness Cold hands & feet Irregular heartbeat (severe cases) Causes & Risk Factors Poor diet (low in iron, B12, or folate) Blood loss (heavy periods, ulcers, surgery) Pregnancy (increased blood volume demands) Chronic diseases (kidney failure, cancer) Genetic disorders (sickle cell, thalassemia) Diagnosis Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Checks hemoglobin, RBC count, hematocrit. Peripheral Blood Smear – Examines RBC shape/size. Iron Studies (ferritin, TIBC) – Checks iron levels. Vitamin B12 & Folate Tests – Detects deficiencies. Bone Marrow Biopsy (if aplastic anemia is suspected). Treatment Options Iron supplements (for iron deficiency). Vitamin B12 injections or oral supplements. Folic acid supplements. Blood transfusions (severe cases). Erythropoietin (EPO) injections (for kidney disease-related anemia). Treating underlying conditions (e.g., stopping bleeding, managing chronic disease). Prevention Tips ✔ Eat iron-rich foods (red meat, spinach, lentils). ✔ Include vitamin C (helps iron absorption). ✔ Consume B12 (meat, dairy, fortified cereals) & folate (leafy greens, beans). ✔ Avoid excessive tea/coffee with meals (blocks iron absorption).

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