What is Anemia?

What is anemia?

Anemia is the most common blood disorder. It affects millions of people in the world. It is a decreased production of red blood cells that results in an insufficient amount of oxygen going to the body’s organs. Since there isn’t enough oxygen, the organs will not function properly.

What are anemia causes?

There are many different things that can cause anemia. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia. Also, vitamin b-12 and folate deficiency can cause anemia. Certain diseases can cause you to have anemia too. Cancers of the blood and bone marrow commonly cause anemia. These cancers include leukemia and myeloma. Rheumatoid arthritis, colon cancer and crohn’s disease can also cause anemia. Sometimes, anemia is inherited. Hemolytic anemia is caused when the red blood cells are destroyed faster than healthy red blood cells are produced. This is normally inherited, but can develop later on in life.  Sickle cell anemia is caused by an inherited disorder that causes the red blood cells to be oddly shaped. These cells also die quickly and cause a decreased amount of red blood cells.

What are the anemia treatments?

The most common anemia treatment is taking an iron supplement. This could help with all types of anemia, especially iron deficiency. Taking vitamin b-12 and folate supplements are also forms of anemia treatment. These work with the iron to help increase the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. In some cases, a blood transfusion is needed to treat anemia. This is usually used as a last case scenario, but may be needed for severe anemia. If the anemia is caused by blood loss, the transfusion will be needed to increase the red blood cell count. For some people, taking prescribed injections is needed to treat the anemia. These injections are called epoetin alfa and are used to increase the production of red blood cells. Therefore, more oxygen is produced and the organs can function properly.

What are anemia symptoms?

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of anemia. It is caused by the lack of oxygen to the body’s organs. Weakness and decreased energy are also anemia symptoms that is caused by the lack of oxygen. Other symptoms of anemia can include shortness of breath, pale and cold skin, jaundice, palpitations, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, dizziness and leg cramping.