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What is Anemia?
Anemia is a condition that occurs due to the decreased number of red blood cells or due to the decreased amount of hemoglobin in the blood.
Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, Which is required for transporting oxygen to the body cells, for the healthy functioning of the body.
When the number of red blood cells is less or when the hemoglobin levels are less in the body the oxygen supply to the body cells decreases. This results in a condition called anemia.
What can cause anemia
Here are some of the common causes of anemia
Excess Bleeding
Bleeding is the most common cause of anemia and results in loss of red blood cells.
Bleeding that occurred due to major injuries, Pregnancy, High Menstrual flow, Ulcers, hemorrhoids (piles), Cancer or through certain diseases like hemophilia can result in heavy loss of blood which can be a main cause of anemia in many cases.
Lower red blood cells production
Lowered red blood cell production is also an important cause of anemia and is caused mainly due to deficiency of folic acid and B-Complex. Both the folic acid and B-complex are required for the synthesis of RBC in bone marrow.
Lower hemoglobin percentage
Hemoglobin is a protein present in blood that contains an iron atom in its center. The iron atom attaches the oxygen and carries it to the body cells.
In case of deficiency in iron intake, the oxygen supply to the cells reduces in the body and can lead to anemia.
Certain medications are also known to cause anemia.
Symptoms
Anemia is characterized by a variety of symptoms like
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Pains in hands and legs
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Appetite loss
Treatment
The treatment of anemia differs from type to type
If the anemia is caused due to deficiency of nutrients like iron, Folic acid, and Vitamin B complex. Such a person is suggested to take supplements of those missing vitamins or nutrients. And is also recommended to consume the foods that are rich in the required vitamins or minerals to meet the requirements of the body.
If the anemia is due to bleeding the treatment is taken accordingly considering the cause.
Bleeding can lead to the loss of blood cells along with blood constituents, the patient is suggested to consume the foods that can increase the blood cell count.
Rarely anemia can also be caused due to the defect in bone marrow, the site for RBC synthesis. In such case, the doctor may suggest for bone marrow transplantation or an alternative treatment.
Prevention
One can prevent becoming anemic by consuming a well-balanced diet rich in iron, Folic acid, B complex vitamins, and other nutrients to meet the body’s requirements.
Taking care of too much bleeding is necessary, as it not only makes the patient anemic but also weak and less immune. Consume foods that can increase your blood cells.
Avoid long-term exposure to toxic chemicals, radioactive substances, and drugs that are known to cause aplastic anemia.
Avoiding long-term use of medications that are known to cause anemia
Certain anemias can be hereditary and cannot be prevented. however, one can reduce the complications by knowing the family history and further consulting a doctor.
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