Anemia is a condition that affects the blood and may be caused by a lack of iron in the diet. Meat, eggs, leafy green vegetables and iron-fortified foods can all help a person get enough iron. Children also need a sufficient supply of iron for proper growth and development. However, intestinal problems can prevent the body from absorbing sufficient amounts of iron. For example, people who have small intestine surgery may have problems absorbing iron.
Iron deficiency causes anaemia.
Anaemia is a condition where red blood cells do not contain enough iron. Since red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, a lack of these cells can cause many problems. Some common causes of anaemia include gastrointestinal tract disorders, menstruation, and cancer.
The body stores iron in its various tissues, including the liver and the bone marrow. However, only about 75% of this iron is incorporated into red blood cells at any time. A person with a chronic iron deficiency will not produce red blood cells, so his or her iron stores will begin to dwindle.
The gastrointestinal tract is a major site of blood loss, and anaemia often manifests as an abnormal gastrointestinal tract that prevents iron absorption. Other symptoms of anaemia include a fast pulse, impaired immune system, and heart problems. In severe cases, iron deficiency will eventually lead to decreased oxygen supply to the tissues. Fortunately, there are specific blood tests for anaemia and iron.
Treatment depends on the underlying illness.
Treatment of anaemia varies, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Anaemia caused by bleeding from the stomach or kidney failure, for example, can be treated with medication, but long-term monitoring may be required. Younger patients can tolerate the symptoms of anaemia better than older people, whose bodies may be more compromised by underlying illnesses. Unfortunately, anaemia can worsen any condition, so it’s vital to treat the underlying disease before treating the anaemia itself.
The symptoms and severity of anaemia can be diagnosed by a complete blood count (CBC) or a specialized blood test. This test will determine the blood’s haemoglobin and RBC counts and whether there’s a problem with the bone marrow. A bone marrow biopsy may be done to assess red blood cell production if a problem is suspected. In some cases, treatment of anaemia depends on the underlying illness and can even be life-threatening.
Acute anaemia caused by blood loss can be treated with IV fluids, cross-matched packed red blood cells, and oxygen. The goal of treatment is to raise haemoglobin levels to seven to eight g/dL. In severe cases, treatment may include blood transfusions or stem cell transplants.
Treatment for Sickle cell anaemia
Treatment for Sickle cell anaemia involves a variety of different treatments. Regular health checkups can help to prevent complications. Vaccination is also an important part of treatment. In some cases, blood transfusions may be necessary. These procedures are performed to dilute sickled haemoglobin and to prevent the risk of a stroke. Patients with sickle cell disease should also avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. Regular physical activity can also help promote good health and relieve disease symptoms. In addition, patients should be sure to rest frequently and stay hydrated.
While there is no cure for sickle cell anaemia, treatment aims to prevent complications and relieve pain. Treatments may include medications to maintain normal blood counts, transfusions, and antibiotics. Treatment for Sickle cell anaemia is crucial for the long-term health of affected patients.
Early diagnosis of sickle cell anaemia is vital to successful treatment. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment, such as a healthy donor’s complete blood and bone marrow transplant. This treatment will ensure that healthy red blood cells continue in the body.
Treatment for Haemolytic anaemia
Treatment for haemolytic anaemia can involve using immunoglobulin (IVIG), an infusion of antibodies to combat the destruction of red blood cells. Immunosuppressive drugs, such as azathioprine, can also be used. When other forms of treatment fail, surgery may be needed.
A physician must determine the cause of hemolytic anaemia. This can be an infection, an inherited disease, or a reaction to the medication. In either case, treatment for haemolytic anaemia will focus on the underlying cause, rather than the symptoms themselves. It is important to seek treatment early, as symptoms can resemble those of other, less serious conditions.
The main reason that hemolytic anaemia occurs is that the bone marrow is not making enough red blood cells. These cells are needed for healthy blood circulation. However, a doctor may suggest a bone marrow transplant if the bone marrow is not functioning properly. A transplant will replace damaged stem cells with healthy ones from another person.
