Do you sometimes feel extremely tired for no reason, feel dizzy even after walking for a while, and feel pale? These symptoms may not just be tiredness. These symptoms may be a sign of a medical condition inside our body. That is anemia, or as we all know it, 'anemia'. Although this is a very common condition, it is very important to be aware of it. So let's talk about it today.
How do I know for sure if I have anemia?
If you think you have symptoms of anemia, the best thing to do is to see a doctor. The doctor will ask you a few questions.
- Describe your symptoms in detail: fatigue, shortness of breath, headache, paleness, etc.
- Your medical history: Things like other illnesses you have, medications you take, and whether you drink alcohol.
- Family medical history: Does anyone in the family have anemia or other blood-related diseases?
- Diet: What you usually eat and drink, how much meat, fish, and vegetables you eat, etc.
After hearing this information, the doctor will examine you and then order several blood tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Anemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells in the blood decreases or the amount of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Simply put, there are three main causes of anemia.
1. Due to bleeding: If there is bleeding from anywhere in the body (e.g. heavy menstruation, intestinal injuries).
2. Decreased red blood cell production: When the body lacks essential nutrients (iron, vitamin B12), due to a problem with the bone marrow.
3. Red blood cell destruction: The rapid breakdown of red blood cells within the body.
Blood tests are done to find out the exact cause.
| Blood test type | What do you see in this? |
|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | The number and size of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood, as well as the hemoglobin level, are checked. This is the most basic test. |
| Serum Ferritin and Iron Levels | This is the best indicator of the amount of iron stored in the body. |
| Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels | We are checking for deficiencies in these two vitamins, which are essential for making red blood cells. |
| Other special tests | Tests such as reticulocyte count and bilirubin can determine the rate of red blood cell production and whether they are being destroyed (hemolytic anemia). |
Most of the time, these blood tests can find the cause. It is very rare that a bone marrow sample is needed for testing. So don't be afraid of that.
What are the treatments for anemia?
The most important thing is that treatment is not started until the exact cause of anemia is found. Because a medicine that is prescribed for one type of anemia may not work for another, and may even be dangerous. Therefore, avoid self-medication.
Anemia caused by bleeding
If there is a sudden, large amount of blood loss (e.g., an accident), you can give saline, blood transfusions, oxygen, and iron tablets. But if there is a long-term, small amount of bleeding (e.g., intestinal ulcers, hemorrhoids), the first thing to do is to find the source of the bleeding and stop it. This may involve a test like a colonoscopy. Then, the iron deficiency is treated.
Anemia caused by decreased red blood cell production
This is the part that needs to be discussed in a little more detail.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
This is the most common type of anemia in the world. When the body lacks enough iron, it cannot make red blood cells. This condition can occur in young women due to heavy menstruation.
If you are taking iron supplements, be sure to keep these things in mind:
- Never take iron pills without medical advice. Iron overload is also very dangerous. It can cause fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, heart disease, and joint problems.
- Keep iron tablets completely away from young children. If young children accidentally swallow iron tablets, it can be fatal. It is one of the most common accidental poisonings among children. If you suspect that a child has swallowed iron tablets, take them to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. If necessary, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
- Be aware of side effects. You may experience stomach upset, nausea, and constipation. You can take the pill with food to reduce these. If you continue to have side effects, tell your doctor.
- Interactions with other medications. If you are taking medication for another condition (e.g. calcium pills), tell your doctor . Calcium can reduce the body's ability to absorb iron.
- Taking iron tablets with vitamin C (e.g. a glass of orange juice) increases the body's absorption of iron.
It is also very good to eat iron-rich foods (red meat, legumes, beans, egg yolks, spinach, seafood).
Anemia caused by vitamin B12 and folate deficiency
Treatment depends on the cause of the condition. Most often, vitamin B12 injections or high-dose pills are given. Some people have to take these injections or pills for the rest of their lives. Foods like meat, fish, milk, cheese, and eggs are rich in vitamin B12.
Folic acid tablets are given for folate deficiency. Folate is abundant in green vegetables, fruits, and dairy foods.
Hemolytic anemia (anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells)
This condition is treated by treating the underlying cause. Sometimes no treatment is needed. If the cause is a chemical, exposure to it should be stopped. Some people may need to take steroids, plasmapheresis, or, rarely, splenectomy.
Can anemia be prevented?
Yes, in many cases, conditions like iron deficiency anemia can be prevented by maintaining a good diet.
- Eat a balanced diet. Include foods rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate in your diet.
- If you are a vegetarian/vegan, be sure to talk to a doctor or nutritionist and take nutritional supplements if necessary.
- Reduce your intake of tea and coffee. Consuming these with meals reduces the body's absorption of iron.
- Choose iron-fortified cereals and breads.
- If working with materials containing lead (e.g. batteries, paint), follow safety procedures exactly.
The most important thing is that if you suspect you have anemia, you should see a doctor, get an accurate diagnosis, and receive appropriate treatment, rather than just guessing and self-medicate.
Take-Home Message
- Symptoms like frequent fatigue, paleness, and weakness can be signs of anemia. Don't just ignore these.
- Only a doctor can tell you exactly what type of anemia you have. A blood test is essential for that.
- Never take iron tablets or other vitamins without medical advice. It can be dangerous.
- Treatment for anemia depends on the underlying condition causing it, so an accurate diagnosis is very important.
- A balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate can prevent many anemia conditions.
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