Anaemia

Kalafhi Medical Centre | Tuesday October 17, 2023 06:00

Haemoglobin is a protein present in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body's organs. Anaemia can produce fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

There are numerous types of anaemia. Each has their own reason. Anaemia can be acute or chronic. Its severity might range from minor to severe. Anaemia can be an indication of a serious illness. What are the different types of anaemia? There are several forms of anaemia, each of which causes a decrease in red blood cell numbers.

• Nutritional anaemia

• Inherited anaemia

• Anaemia caused by abnormal red blood cells Symptoms and Causes Certain types of anaemia might be inherited, or people can develop anaemia as a result of chronic conditions. Iron-deficiency anaemia, the most prevalent type of anaemia, is caused by a poor diet. What are the symptoms of anaemia? Possible symptoms of anaemia include:

• Tiredness

• Weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Pale or yellowish skin, which might be more obvious on white skin than on black or brown skin

• Irregular heartbeat

• Dizziness or light-headedness

• Chest pain

• Cold hands and feet

• Headache How do healthcare providers diagnose anaemia? Because anaemia occurs when you do not have enough healthy red blood cells, blood tests will be performed to check on your red blood cells: They count your red blood cells and assess the size and shape of your red blood cells. This test may be used by healthcare providers to examine your vitamin B12 or B9 levels. Management and treatment Some varieties of anaemia are temporary and moderate, while others might last a lifetime.

Anaemia can be managed in a variety of methods, including: Maintaining a healthy diet. The primary cause of anaemia is a poor diet. Inquire with your doctor about iron-rich foods and other things you should consume. Keeping hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Getting regular exercise: Talk to your doctor about safe ways to exercise. Keeping away from certain chemicals: Certain metals can cause haemolytic anaemia if exposed to them. Washing your hands frequently to avoid infection:

You may also want to talk to your doctor about immunisations that protect against common infections. Taking proper care of your teeth and seeing the dentist on a regular basis: Dental disorders can result from iron deficient anaemia. If you have iron-deficiency anaemia or pernicious anaemia, your doctor may advise you to change your diet or take supplements. If you have anaemia as a result of a chronic disease, your doctor will treat the underlying cause. They may recommend medicine to increase red blood cell production.

To treat anomies caused by abnormal red blood cells, such as aplastic anaemia or haemolytic anaemia, providers may utilise drugs such as immunosuppressants or treatments such as blood transfusions. What if anaemia is not treated? Undiagnosed or untreated anaemia can lead to life-threatening organ failure. Children with severe anaemia may experience developmental delays. Heart disorders such as angina, arrhythmias, and myocardial infarction can occur in people in their 80s.

Sources World Health Organization MAYO CLINIC