One of the common blood disorders is Anemia. When a person is Anemic, it means the person has fewer healthy blood cells. And due to its result, the body parts of the person receive less oxygen. Now, the less oxygen will make the person feel weak and tired all the time. The patients of Anemia are more women as compared to men. If we have the proper knowledge of why Anemia happens to us, we can take precautions and avoid Anemia blood disorder. Let’s read the comprehensive details.
Table of Contents
Causes of Anemia
Anemia can develop due to various reasons. Some causes are related to diet, while others may come from underlying health problems.
- Iron deficiency – If the person is taking a low-iron diet, or if he is taking iron but it does not get absorbed in the body.
- Vitamin deficiency – If the person lacks folate, Vitamin B12, or Vitamin C can lead to anemia, he becomes anemic.
- Chronic diseases – Some conditions, like kidney disease, cancer, or infection, may reduce red blood cell production, making the person anemic.
- Blood loss – If the person has had heavy periods, surgeries, injuries, or internal bleeding can lead to anemia due to loss of blood.
- Bone marrow disorders – Conditions such as leukemia or aplastic anemia affect blood cell production.
- Inherited disorders – Diseases like sickle cell anemia and thalassemia are genetic.
Common Symptoms of Anemia
Anemia symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on how low the red blood cell count is.
- Fatigue – If you’re feeling tired even after enough rest.
- Weakness – If you are not able to perform daily tasks due to low energy.
- Pale skin – Check your skin color, especially on the face, hands, or inside the eyelids.
- Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing during normal activities.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness – If you feeling faint or unsteady.
- Cold hands and feet – Poor blood circulation can make the extremities feel cold.
- Chest pain – In severe cases, the heart works harder to pump blood.
Types of Anemia
Different types of anemia exist, each with its own causes and treatments. The table below explains the main types:
| Type of Anemia | Description |
|---|---|
| Iron Deficiency Anemia | Caused by low iron levels; common in women and people with poor diets. |
| Vitamin Deficiency Anemia | Caused by lack of Vitamin B12 or folate. |
| Aplastic Anemia | A rare condition where the body stops producing enough red blood cells. |
| Hemolytic Anemia | Red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are made. |
| Sickle Cell Anemia | Caused by a lack of Vitamin B12 or folate. |
| Thalassemia | Inherited disorder where red blood cells become misshapen and break down. |
| Anemia of Chronic Disease | Linked to chronic illnesses like kidney disease or cancer. |
Risk Factors for Anemia
Some people are more likely to develop anemia due to their lifestyle, health, or genetics.
- Women are more at risk due to menstruation and pregnancy.
- Elderly people are more likely to have chronic diseases that affect blood production.
- Vegetarians may not get enough iron, B12, or folate from their diet.
- People with chronic illnesses – Conditions like ulcers, cancer, and kidney disease increase the risk.
- Family history – Inherited anemias like sickle cell anemia can run in families.
Diagnosis of Anemia
Proper diagnosis is important to treat anemia effectively. Doctors use various tests to confirm the condition and its cause.
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Measures levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. |
| Iron tests | Checks iron levels and how well the body stores iron. |
| Vitamin tests | Determines levels of Vitamin B12 and folate. |
| Bone marrow test | Used in cases of suspected bone marrow disease. |
| Hemoglobin electrophoresis | Identifies abnormal forms of hemoglobin, especially in genetic disorders. |
Best Treatment Options for Anemia
Treatment depends on the type and cause of anemia. The right approach helps in restoring red blood cell levels and relieving symptoms.
| Treatment Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Iron supplements | Used to treat iron deficiency anemia. |
| Vitamin supplements | B12 or folate supplements are given if the deficiency is the cause. |
| Dietary changes | Iron-rich foods like meat, beans, and leafy greens are recommended. |
| Medications | Used to treat anemia of chronic disease or stimulate red blood cell production. |
| Blood transfusion | Given in severe anemia cases to quickly increase red blood cell count. |
| Bone marrow transplant | Used in aplastic anemia or certain genetic conditions. |
| Given in severe anemia cases to quickly increase the red blood cell count. | Managing the main illness can help improve anemia. |
Iron-Rich Foods to Prevent or Manage Anemia
Eating a balanced diet plays a major role in preventing anemia. The table below shows foods that help boost iron levels:
| Food Group | Examples |
|---|---|
| Meat and Fish | Beef, chicken, turkey, liver, tuna, sardines |
| Vegetables | Spinach, kale, broccoli, peas |
| Legumes | Lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, kidney beans |
| Fruits | Oranges, strawberries, kiwi (rich in Vitamin C to aid absorption) |
| Grains | Iron-fortified cereals, whole wheat bread |
| Nuts and Seeds | Pumpkin seeds, almonds, cashews |
Prevention Tips for Anemia
Simple steps can lower the risk of developing anemia, especially in people who are more prone to it.
- Balanced diet – Eating iron- and vitamin-rich foods supports red blood cell production.
- Regular check-ups – Early detection through blood tests can prevent complications.
- Iron supplements – Can be taken if recommended by a doctor, especially during pregnancy.
- Treat underlying health issues – Managing conditions like ulcers or kidney disease helps prevent anemia.
- Avoid excess tea or coffee – These can reduce iron absorption when taken with meals.
Summing Up
Anemia is a serious but manageable condition. Everybody can avoid the anemic condition by taking a proper diet, and you can also have regular blood tests. Proper medication can improve blood health in the human body. If you have any of the symptoms of anemia, you can consult a doctor near you.
