Anemia is a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells in the blood, causing the body to not provide enough oxygen and nutrients, causing a range of symptoms. The main indicator of anemia is hemoglobin, which is a protein found in red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen. When the quantity or quality of hemoglobin decreases, the function of red blood cells is also affected, leading to anemia.
Causes of anemia.
1.Nutritional deficiencies: Malnutrition is one of the main causes of anemia. In particular, deficiencies in nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid can affect the normal production and function of red blood cells.
2.Blood loss: Anemia can be caused by heavy bleeding or chronic blood loss. For example, peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal tumors, heavy menstrual bleeding, and other conditions can cause persistent blood loss, leading to anemia.
3.Bone marrow problems: The bone marrow is where blood cells are produced, which can also lead to anemia if the bone marrow is damaged or has limited function. Bone marrow disorders, myelofibrosis, aplastic aplasia, etc., can affect the normal production of red blood cells.
4.Genetic disorders: Certain genetic disorders cause abnormal morphology or dysfunction of red blood cells, which can lead to anemia. For example, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, etc.
5.Chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases such as kidney disease, inflammatory diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc.) can interfere with the production, lifespan, or breakdown of red blood cells, causing anemia.
6.Certain drugs and**: Certain drugs (e.g., chemotherapy drugs, anticoagulants) or radiation** may also have adverse effects on the bone marrow, leading to anemia.
7.Immune system problems: Autoimmune diseases (such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.) can cause the body to attack its own red blood cells, causing hemolytic anemia.
8.Infections and diseases: Certain infections (such as malaria) and diseases (such as cancer) can also cause anemia.
These are the most common causes of anemia, which need to be evaluated and diagnosed by a doctor through a detailed medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
What are the symptoms that occur after anemia.
1.Fatigue and decreased physical strength: Due to anemia, the lack of oxygen in the blood** makes the body unable to get enough oxygen, making people feel tired, weak, and easily exhausted.
2.Palpitations and shortness of breath: In anemia, the heart needs to pump harder to make up for the lack of oxygen, which can lead to palpitations and shortness of breath. You may feel short of breath and wheezing even with light activity.
3.Dizziness and headaches: Lack of oxygen can also lead to a lack of oxygen supply to the brain, causing dizziness and headaches.
4.Pallor: May become pale due to anemia lacking healthy red blood cells. Other mucosal tissues (eg, lips, nail beds) may also be affected.
5.Snacking and pica: Some people with anemia may have cravings for non-edible substances, such as ice, clay, starch, etc. This phenomenon is called pica and may be due to the body's desire to correct certain nutrient deficiencies by consuming non-foods.
6.Palpitations and insomnia: Anemia can cause a rapid heart rate and irregular heartbeat, which can cause palpitations and insomnia.
7.Prone to symptoms such as hair loss, brittle nails, and oral erosions.
8.Loss of appetite, indigestion, and weight loss.
Symptoms of anemia do not always manifest in all patients, and the severity of symptoms varies from individual to individual.
The best way to get anemia.
1.Supplementation of nutrients: If anemia is due to nutrient deficiencies, supplementation of deficiencies is key. For example, iron deficiency anemia usually requires oral iron or iron injections to replenish the body's iron stores. Folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency anemia can be achieved by supplementing with the appropriate nutrients by mouth or injection**.
2.Dealing with underlying conditions: If anemia is caused by other conditions, those underlying conditions may help improve anemia. For example, dealing with the causes of gastrointestinal bleeding, correcting chronic inflammatory diseases or kidney problems, etc.
3.Blood transfusions: In cases of severe anemia, blood transfusions can rapidly increase the number of red blood cells and oxygen** in the blood to relieve symptoms.
4.Bone marrow transplant: In some specific types of anemia, such as major aplastic aplastic and some inherited anemias, a bone marrow transplant may be needed to replace the abnormal blood-forming cells.
5.Adjust medications: If the anemia is due to certain medications, your doctor may evaluate existing medications** and adjust the dose or switch to alternative medications.
6.Managing symptoms: In addition to the direct anemia itself, quality of life can be improved by managing symptoms. This includes proper rest, a balanced diet, increased exercise, and coping with stress, among other things.
After identifying the cause of anemia, work with your doctor to develop a ** plan that is appropriate for your individual situation. A medical professional is able to provide the best advice on a case-by-case basis and monitor the progression of the disease to ensure its effectiveness.
How to prevent anemia.
1.Eat a nutritionally balanced diet: Make sure you're eating foods rich in key nutrients like iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin C. Iron-rich foods include red meat, chicken, fish, legumes, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Folic acid and vitamin B12 are abundant in dark green vegetables, legumes, poultry, seafood, and dairy products. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron better and is available from citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, and other vegetables.
2.Avoid nutrient-deficient eating Xi: Limit eating too many processed foods, high-fat foods, and foods with too much sugar, which may reduce nutrient absorption and utilization.
3.Increase iron absorption: To promote iron absorption, avoid coffee, tea, and calcium-rich foods along with iron.
4.Increase vitamin C intake: Vitamin C helps promote iron absorption, so it can increase the intake of vitamin C-rich foods. Citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, red peppers, and leafy greens are all good vitamin C**.
5.Regular check-ups: Regular check-ups are performed to monitor haemoglobin levels and anemia for early detection and timely treatment.
6.Healthy lifestyle: Maintain proper sleep, regular exercise, and stress management to support your body's overall health and immune function.
If you have a specific health condition or special nutritional needs, it is advisable to consult a medical professional for more personalized guidance on the prevention of anemia.