What are the primary causes of chronic anemia. How does chronic anemia differ from other types of anemia. What are the common symptoms associated with chronic anemia. Which dietary changes can help manage chronic anemia. How is chronic anemia diagnosed and treated effectively.

Understanding Chronic Anemia: A Comprehensive Overview

Chronic anemia, also known as anemia of chronic disease or anemia of inflammation and chronic disease, is a condition characterized by a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells or a decrease in hemoglobin levels. This results in insufficient oxygen delivery to the body’s cells, leading to various symptoms and health complications.

Unlike other forms of anemia, chronic anemia is typically a secondary condition that develops as a result of long-term health issues. These underlying conditions affect the body’s ability to produce red blood cells efficiently, leading to persistent anemia.

What are the primary causes of chronic anemia?

Chronic anemia can be attributed to several long-term health conditions, including:

• Cancer (e.g., non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, breast cancer)
• Kidney disease
• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
• Inflammatory diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease)
• Long-term infections (e.g., HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis B or C)

In some cases, the treatments for these conditions, such as chemotherapy for cancer, can also contribute to the development of chronic anemia by impacting the body’s ability to produce new blood cells.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Chronic Anemia

Identifying chronic anemia can be challenging, as its symptoms may be masked by the underlying condition. However, some common signs and symptoms include:

• Weakness and fatigue
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat

It’s important to note that these symptoms may vary in severity and presentation depending on the individual and the underlying condition.

How does chronic anemia impact daily life?

Chronic anemia can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. The persistent fatigue and weakness can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, while shortness of breath may limit physical activities. Additionally, the rapid heartbeat can cause anxiety and affect overall well-being. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective management strategies and improving patient outcomes.

Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches for Chronic Anemia

Diagnosing chronic anemia typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The primary diagnostic tool is a complete blood count (CBC) test, which measures various components of blood, including red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels.

How is chronic anemia diagnosed effectively?

To diagnose chronic anemia, healthcare providers may follow these steps:

1. Conduct a thorough medical history review
2. Perform a physical examination
3. Order a complete blood count (CBC) test
4. Assess iron, vitamin B12, and folate levels
5. Investigate underlying conditions through additional tests

Once diagnosed, the treatment approach for chronic anemia often focuses on addressing the underlying condition rather than treating the anemia separately. However, in some cases, specific treatments may be recommended to manage the anemia itself.

What are the common treatment options for chronic anemia?

Treatment options for chronic anemia may include:

• Treating the underlying condition (e.g., anti-inflammatories for inflammatory bowel disease)
• Vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements (for deficiencies)
• Iron supplements (if iron deficiency is present)
• Synthetic erythropoietin (for kidney disease-related anemia)
• Dietary modifications to address specific nutrient deficiencies

The choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause, severity of anemia, and individual patient factors. Healthcare providers work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address both the anemia and the underlying condition.

Dietary Strategies to Manage Chronic Anemia

Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing chronic anemia, especially when specific nutrient deficiencies are identified. Incorporating certain foods into the diet can help address deficiencies in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, which are essential for red blood cell production.

Which foods are rich in iron and beneficial for chronic anemia?

Iron-rich foods that can help manage chronic anemia include:

• Beans
• Chicken
• Spinach
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Red meat (in moderation)
• Lentils
• Tofu
• Pumpkin seeds

It’s important to note that iron absorption can be enhanced by consuming vitamin C-rich foods alongside iron-rich foods. For example, pairing spinach with citrus fruits or bell peppers can improve iron absorption.

What dietary sources can help address folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiencies?

For folic acid, consider incorporating:

• Beans
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Rice
• Dark leafy greens
• Avocado
• Citrus fruits

Vitamin B12 can be found in:

• Chicken
• Fish
• Beef liver
• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Fortified plant-based milk alternatives

While dietary changes can be beneficial, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant alterations to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Distinguishing Chronic Anemia from Other Types of Anemia

While chronic anemia shares some similarities with other forms of anemia, it has distinct characteristics that set it apart. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How does chronic anemia differ from iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia, the most common type of anemia, is primarily caused by a lack of iron due to blood loss, inadequate dietary intake, or poor absorption. In contrast, chronic anemia is a secondary condition resulting from long-term health issues that affect red blood cell production. While iron deficiency may be present in chronic anemia, it’s not the primary cause.

What sets chronic anemia apart from vitamin deficiency anemia?

Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused by insufficient levels of vitamin B12 or folic acid, either due to dietary deficiencies or malabsorption issues. Chronic anemia, on the other hand, is more complex and stems from underlying chronic conditions that impact overall red blood cell production, not just specific nutrient deficiencies.

How does chronic anemia compare to aplastic anemia?

Aplastic anemia is a rare condition where the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Chronic anemia primarily affects red blood cell production and is more common, typically associated with ongoing health conditions rather than bone marrow failure.

The Impact of Chronic Anemia on Various Body Systems

Chronic anemia can have far-reaching effects on multiple body systems due to the persistent lack of adequate oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. Understanding these impacts is crucial for comprehensive patient care and management.

How does chronic anemia affect the cardiovascular system?

The cardiovascular system is significantly impacted by chronic anemia. To compensate for the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, the heart may need to work harder, leading to:

• Increased heart rate
• Potential development of heart murmurs
• Risk of left ventricular hypertrophy in severe cases
• Possible exacerbation of pre-existing heart conditions

These cardiovascular adaptations can put additional strain on the heart, potentially leading to complications in the long term if the anemia remains untreated.

What are the effects of chronic anemia on the respiratory system?

The respiratory system also adapts to chronic anemia to compensate for the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Common respiratory effects include:

• Increased respiratory rate
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• Potential worsening of existing respiratory conditions

These respiratory changes can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

How does chronic anemia impact cognitive function and mental health?

The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen to function optimally. Chronic anemia can lead to various cognitive and mental health effects, including:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Increased risk of depression and anxiety
• Fatigue and reduced mental alertness

These cognitive and mental health impacts underscore the importance of proper management and treatment of chronic anemia to maintain overall well-being and quality of life.

Advanced Treatment Options for Chronic Anemia

While addressing the underlying condition is crucial in managing chronic anemia, there are advanced treatment options available for cases that don’t respond adequately to conventional approaches. These treatments aim to boost red blood cell production or address specific aspects of the anemia.

What role do erythropoiesis-stimulating agents play in treating chronic anemia?

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are synthetic versions of the hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production. They are commonly used in cases of chronic anemia associated with kidney disease. ESAs can help:

• Increase red blood cell production
• Reduce the need for blood transfusions
• Improve quality of life by alleviating anemia symptoms

However, ESAs require careful monitoring and dosage adjustment to avoid potential complications.

When are blood transfusions considered for chronic anemia?

Blood transfusions may be necessary in severe cases of chronic anemia or when rapid improvement in oxygen-carrying capacity is required. They are typically considered when:

• Hemoglobin levels are dangerously low
• The patient is experiencing severe symptoms
• Other treatment options have been ineffective

While transfusions provide immediate relief, they are generally not a long-term solution for chronic anemia and carry their own risks and complications.

How can iron therapy be optimized for chronic anemia patients?

Iron therapy can be crucial in managing chronic anemia, especially when iron deficiency is present. Optimization strategies include:

• Intravenous iron administration for better absorption
• Combining oral iron supplements with vitamin C for enhanced absorption
• Using newer iron formulations with fewer side effects
• Regular monitoring of iron levels to adjust treatment

The choice of iron therapy depends on the severity of anemia, patient tolerance, and the underlying condition causing the chronic anemia.

Living with Chronic Anemia: Lifestyle Adaptations and Self-Care

Managing chronic anemia extends beyond medical treatments. Lifestyle adaptations and self-care strategies play a crucial role in improving quality of life and minimizing the impact of anemia on daily activities.

How can exercise be safely incorporated into the routine of someone with chronic anemia?

While exercise is beneficial for overall health, individuals with chronic anemia need to approach physical activity with caution. Safe exercise strategies include:

• Starting with low-intensity activities and gradually increasing intensity
• Focusing on activities that improve cardiovascular fitness without overexertion
• Incorporating regular rest periods during exercise sessions
• Staying hydrated and listening to the body’s signals
• Working with a healthcare provider or physical therapist to develop a tailored exercise plan

Regular, moderate exercise can help improve energy levels and overall well-being in individuals with chronic anemia.

What stress management techniques are effective for coping with chronic anemia?

Chronic anemia can be physically and emotionally challenging. Effective stress management techniques include:

• Mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises
• Yoga or gentle stretching routines
• Engaging in hobbies or creative activities
• Joining support groups for individuals with chronic health conditions
• Seeking professional counseling or therapy when needed

Managing stress can help improve overall well-being and may positively impact the body’s ability to cope with chronic anemia.

How can sleep quality be improved for individuals with chronic anemia?

Quality sleep is crucial for managing fatigue associated with chronic anemia. Sleep improvement strategies include:

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
• Optimizing the sleep environment (e.g., comfortable mattress, dark and quiet room)
• Avoiding caffeine and electronic devices before bedtime
• Discussing sleep issues with healthcare providers to address any underlying sleep disorders

Improving sleep quality can significantly enhance energy levels and overall quality of life for individuals living with chronic anemia.

Chronic Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What is anemia?

If you have anemia, you have a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells, or the amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells has dropped below normal. Because of this, your body’s cells aren’t getting enough oxygen.

There are three primary causes of anemia: blood loss, lack of red blood cell production, and high rates of red blood cell destruction.

Chronic anemia is also known as anemia of chronic disease and anemia of inflammation and chronic disease. This anemia is a result of other long-term health conditions that affect your body’s ability to make red blood cells.

These health conditions include:

• cancer, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and breast cancer
• kidney disease
• autoimmune disorders and inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• long-term infections, such as HIV, endocarditis, tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, lung abscess, and hepatitis B or hepatitis C

Sometimes the chemotherapy used to treat certain cancers undermines your body’s ability to make new blood cells, resulting in anemia.

Symptoms might include:

• weakness
• fatigue
• pale skin
• shortness of breath
• fast heartbeat

These symptoms may be masked by underlying conditions.

Many doctors will focus on treating the condition that is causing the chronic anemia and not always treat it separately.

For example, if you have IBD, your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatories such as corticosteroids and antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro). These can treat the IBD and make the chronic anemia disappear.

There are other conditions in which your doctor might suggest treatments specifically targeted at the chronic anemia.

For example, if you have kidney disease with chronic anemia, your doctor might prescribe vitamin B-12 and folic acid supplements if you have a vitamin B-12 or folate deficiency. Or your doctor might prescribe a synthetic form of erythropoietin.

Also, if you have chronic anemia and blood work indicates an iron deficiency, your doctor might recommend iron supplements.

People with chronic anemia are often advised to incorporate dietary changes to address specific deficiencies. Following are a few suggestions if your iron, folic acid, or vitamin B-12 levels are low.

Dietary sources of iron:

• beans
• chicken
• spinach
• breakfast cereals

Dietary sources of folic acid:

• beans
• chicken
• breakfast cereals
• rice

Dietary sources of vitamin B-12:

• chicken
• breakfast cereals
• fish
• beef liver

Iron deficiency anemia

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. It’s caused by a lack of iron from blood loss, a diet deficient in iron, or poor absorption of iron.

Vitamin deficiency anemia

Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B-12 or folic acid either from a diet deficient in these nutrients or poor absorption of them.

When vitamin B-12 can’t be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, it results in pernicious anemia.

Aplastic anemia

Aplastic anemia is a rare condition that occurs when your bone marrow stops making enough blood cells.

Hemolytic anemia

Hemolytic anemia occurs when red blood cells are broken up in the bloodstream or in the spleen. It may be due to mechanical problems (leaky heart valves or aneurysms), infections, autoimmune disorders, or congenital abnormalities in red blood cells.

Sickle cell anemia

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited hemolytic anemia with abnormal hemoglobin protein that causes red blood cells to be rigid and clog circulation through small blood vessels.

Chronic anemia is a type of anemia that commonly occurs with infections, chronic illnesses, inflammatory disorders, or cancer. It often isn’t treated separately from the underlying condition causing it.

If you have a condition that may be associated with chronic anemia and think that you might be anemic, talk to your doctor about a complete blood count (CBC) blood test. If the result indicates chronic anemia, review treatment options with your doctor.

Chronic Anemia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What is anemia?

If you have anemia, you have a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells, or the amount of hemoglobin in your red blood cells has dropped below normal. Because of this, your body’s cells aren’t getting enough oxygen.

There are three primary causes of anemia: blood loss, lack of red blood cell production, and high rates of red blood cell destruction.

Chronic anemia is also known as anemia of chronic disease and anemia of inflammation and chronic disease. This anemia is a result of other long-term health conditions that affect your body’s ability to make red blood cells.

These health conditions include:

• cancer, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and breast cancer
• kidney disease
• autoimmune disorders and inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• long-term infections, such as HIV, endocarditis, tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, lung abscess, and hepatitis B or hepatitis C

Sometimes the chemotherapy used to treat certain cancers undermines your body’s ability to make new blood cells, resulting in anemia.

Symptoms might include:

• weakness
• fatigue
• pale skin
• shortness of breath
• fast heartbeat

These symptoms may be masked by underlying conditions.

Many doctors will focus on treating the condition that is causing the chronic anemia and not always treat it separately.

For example, if you have IBD, your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatories such as corticosteroids and antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro). These can treat the IBD and make the chronic anemia disappear.

There are other conditions in which your doctor might suggest treatments specifically targeted at the chronic anemia.

For example, if you have kidney disease with chronic anemia, your doctor might prescribe vitamin B-12 and folic acid supplements if you have a vitamin B-12 or folate deficiency. Or your doctor might prescribe a synthetic form of erythropoietin.

Also, if you have chronic anemia and blood work indicates an iron deficiency, your doctor might recommend iron supplements.

People with chronic anemia are often advised to incorporate dietary changes to address specific deficiencies. Following are a few suggestions if your iron, folic acid, or vitamin B-12 levels are low.

Dietary sources of iron:

• beans
• chicken
• spinach
• breakfast cereals

Dietary sources of folic acid:

• beans
• chicken
• breakfast cereals
• rice

Dietary sources of vitamin B-12:

• chicken
• breakfast cereals
• fish
• beef liver

Iron deficiency anemia

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. It’s caused by a lack of iron from blood loss, a diet deficient in iron, or poor absorption of iron.

Vitamin deficiency anemia

Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of vitamin B-12 or folic acid either from a diet deficient in these nutrients or poor absorption of them.

When vitamin B-12 can’t be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, it results in pernicious anemia.

Aplastic anemia

Aplastic anemia is a rare condition that occurs when your bone marrow stops making enough blood cells.

Hemolytic anemia

Hemolytic anemia occurs when red blood cells are broken up in the bloodstream or in the spleen. It may be due to mechanical problems (leaky heart valves or aneurysms), infections, autoimmune disorders, or congenital abnormalities in red blood cells.

Sickle cell anemia

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited hemolytic anemia with abnormal hemoglobin protein that causes red blood cells to be rigid and clog circulation through small blood vessels.

Chronic anemia is a type of anemia that commonly occurs with infections, chronic illnesses, inflammatory disorders, or cancer. It often isn’t treated separately from the underlying condition causing it.

If you have a condition that may be associated with chronic anemia and think that you might be anemic, talk to your doctor about a complete blood count (CBC) blood test. If the result indicates chronic anemia, review treatment options with your doctor.

Anemia: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment approaches

Definition
Anemia (synonymous with anemia) is a decrease in the content of hemoglobin and / or the number of red blood cells per unit volume of blood, leading to a deterioration in the supply of oxygen to tissues, i.e. to the development of hypoxia. The diagnosis of “anemia” is established when hemoglobin is less than 130 g/l in men and less than 120 g/l in women, and in children age is taken into account, considering hemoglobin levels less than 110 g/l (up to 4 years), 115 g/l as anemia ( up to 11 years old), 120 g/l (up to 15 years old).

Anemia is not an independent disease, but is a manifestation or complication of many other pathological conditions (low iron intake, wounds and injuries, erosions and ulcers of the gastrointestinal tract, atrophic gastritis, enteritis, surgical interventions on the stomach and small intestine, chronic diseases liver and kidneys, oncological, infectious, autoimmune diseases, helminthic invasions, leukemia, menstrual disorders and other gynecological pathology, intoxication and radiation injuries).

The most common is anemia that occurs after acute or chronic blood loss. Examples of acute blood loss can be bleeding from a stomach ulcer, severe mechanical trauma, and chronic blood loss – heavy and prolonged menstruation, hemorrhoids, hematuria with nephritis, hemoptysis with tuberculosis or systemic vasculitis. Anemia due to chronic blood loss is usually iron deficiency. Pregnant women also often show signs of anemia due to the increased demand for iron.

Anemia may also result from impaired hematopoiesis (eg, vitamin B12 deficiency or leukemia, exposure to ionizing radiation), increased hemorrhage, or hemolysis (eg, autoimmune diseases, various intoxications).

Symptoms of anemia

The lower the hemoglobin level, the more severe the anemia. There are general (non-specific) manifestations of anemia and signs that are specific to a particular type of anemia.

Nonspecific manifestations include pallor of the skin, weakness, increased fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, fainting, tinnitus, flickering of “flies” before the eyes, shortness of breath, palpitations, rapid pulse, etc.
Dry skin is observed in anemia due to iron deficiency in the body , fragility of nails, hair, ulceration and cracks in the corners of the mouth, muscle weakness. Some patients have a burning sensation of the tongue, a perversion of taste in the form of an indomitable desire to eat chalk, toothpaste, earth, raw cereals, raw meat, as well as an addiction to certain smells (acetone, gasoline). Patients may report subjective signs of chronic blood loss (hemoptysis, epistaxis, episodes of black stools or fresh blood in the stool, red urine).

B12-deficiency anemias are characterized by paresthesias (a feeling of crawling all over the body), sensory disturbances, numbness of the extremities; in severe forms, mental disorders, delirium, hallucinations, acquired dementia are observed.

Hemolytic anemia is often accompanied by yellowness of the skin, sclera of the eyes, dyspeptic manifestations (nausea, vomiting), heaviness in the left side of the abdomen due to an increase in the size of the spleen.
Patients with aplastic anemia often suffer from concomitant bronchitis, pneumonia and other manifestations of immunodeficiency.

Diagnosis of anemia

If anemia is suspected in an adult patient, a general practitioner or family doctor should be consulted. Depending on the initial presentation, the patient should be referred to doctors of other specialties, in whose competence this clinical case may be, such as a hematologist, gastroenterologist, rheumatologist, nephrologist, infectious disease specialist, parasitologist, mycologist, surgeon, urologist, oncologist, etc.

Examination for the cause of anemia should be comprehensive, with an assessment of the patient’s vital activity, diet, medical history, and a thorough analysis of the clinical picture.

Laboratory diagnosis of anemia, carried out at the first stage, necessarily involves a general clinical blood test with the determination of hemoglobin concentration, the number of erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets, hematocrit and erythrocyte indices, color index, leukocyte formula and ESR (with microscopy of a blood smear in the presence of pathological changes ).

In order to clarify the diagnosis and establish the cause of anemia in an individual patient, taking into account the characteristics of his disease, the first contact doctor and specialized specialists may recommend the following laboratory and instrumental studies: transferrin (iron carrier protein), latent (unsaturated) iron-binding capacity of serum blood (LVHSS, NZhSS), serum iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, indirect bilirubin, free hemoglobin in plasma, serum creatinine, total protein, hepatic transaminases, potassium, sodium, glucose, coagulogram, C-reactive protein, rheumatoid and antinuclear factor , general clinical sputum analysis, sputum examination for mycobacterium tuberculosis, “DiaskinTest”, T-SPOT test, general clinical urinalysis, analysis for daily protein loss, fecal occult blood analysis, electrocardiography, plain radiography or computed tomography of the chest, ultrasound of the abdominal organs cavity (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen), kidneys, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands and regional lymph nodes, fibrogastroduodenoscopy (FGDS), fibrocolonoscopy (FCS), bone marrow puncture.

Treatment of anemia

Treatment of anemia depends on its etiology and may involve a variety of approaches. In general, treatment tactics depend on the type of anemia and the severity of the patient’s condition. Some anemias are treated in a hospital setting. It is important to eliminate the source of blood loss. Iron deficiency and B12 deficiency anemia are treated with iron supplements and vitamin B12. Also, with a low level of hemoglobin, red blood cell transfusions can be applied. According to vital indications, with a sharp violation of hemodynamics, a drop in hemoglobin below 70-80 g / l, blood transfusions are used. Therapy of individual forms of anemia is carried out taking into account their etiology and pathogenesis. Since anemia is always secondary, it is necessary to actively treat diseases that cause a decrease in hemoglobin levels (diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, infectious, parasitic, viral, fungal, oncological, etc.). According to the indications, immunosuppressive therapy is carried out; surgical interventions (removal of the spleen, bone marrow transplantation).

Treatment of anemia at the MedEx clinic in Moscow

Iron deficiency in the blood provokes a number of systemic metabolic disorders, the main of which is a decrease in oxygen levels in tissue cells. Hypoxia is one of the factors in the development of many chronic pathologies, including endocrine and vascular ones, so it must be detected in a timely manner. Treatment of anemia in most cases is carried out in a complex way: in addition to taking medication, dietary changes and lifestyle changes are required.

The MedEx Personal Medicine Clinic offers diagnostic and therapy services for various forms of pathology at affordable prices in Moscow.

In medicine, anemia is a pathological condition of the hematopoietic system, in which the level of erythrocytes per unit volume of blood is significantly reduced with a simultaneous decrease in hemoglobin, the protein responsible for iron absorption. Deficiency can develop imperceptibly for several months or years, less often – it occurs suddenly, for example, after heavy blood loss.

In most cases, anemia is a symptom of another chronic disease or metabolic disorder. The main causes of pathology:

• Acute and chronic bleeding: as a result of injuries, surgical interventions, erosive or ulcerative lesions of the mucous organs of the gastrointestinal tract. In women, one of the provoking factors is heavy menstruation. The volume of plasma in case of blood loss is replenished quickly, the synthesis of new red blood cells is a more complex and slow process.
• Diseases of the hematopoietic system: liver, spleen, bone marrow. As a result of inflammatory, malignant pathologies, underdevelopment or damage to organs, hemodialysis (destruction of red blood cells) proceeds rapidly, which affects the quality of the blood.
• Poor nutrition: prolonged lack of protein foods, vitamins, microelements in the daily diet.
• Impaired absorption and absorption of iron in the body. A similar condition occurs as a result of certain intestinal pathologies, kidney diseases, with tumor processes, and critical physical exhaustion.

Signs of anemia

A prejudice that has survived to this day about the appearance of people suffering from anemia, or “anemia” – pallor and lack of weight. However, in reality, patients may not be fragile at all and have a completely healthy appearance. The condition is characterized by a change in complexion only in an advanced stage.

For a long time, anemia in adults may not give itself away, and its likely signs are nonspecific: they occur with various diseases. The most common:

• chronic fatigue syndrome: rapid fatigue, periods of daytime sleepiness, decreased concentration;
• increased dryness and flaking of the skin, hair loss, brittle nails;
• neurological disorders: involuntary twitching of the legs, goosebumps, decreased sensitivity in various parts of the body, apathy;
• perversion of taste: desire to eat inedible objects, to inhale pungent odors.

Possible consequences

The initial stages of anemia are not dangerous for general health. But the insidiousness of this disease is in a long course. Without going to the doctor and timely treatment, the progress of the pathological condition and the development of complications are possible – atrophic gastritis, chronic asthenic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, deterioration of the central nervous system.

Timely diagnosis and treatment of anemia in women is especially important, since oxygen deficiency in the body is closely associated with diseases of the reproductive system:

• violation of the synthesis of sex hormones;
• decreased chance of conception;
• the formation of pathologies of fetal development;
• complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

The condition is aggravated by a deficiency in the body of B vitamins (folic acid, cyanocobalamin, pyridoxine), as well as chronic diseases of the liver, kidneys and intestines.

Types of anemia

Depending on the pathological mechanism of development, several types of pathology are distinguished:

• Deficiency anemia: formed against the background of poor intake of iron, B vitamins and copper – an element that helps maintain a normal level of hemoglobin and transport oxygen. Iron-deficiency and B12-deficiency types of anemia often occur due to a deterioration in the functioning of the digestive tract, a decrease in the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, the formation of tumors, after surgery. Such pathologies are prone to chronicity more often than others, since they do not have pronounced signs. Treatment of anemia in adults is difficult due to the presence of a large number of concomitant chronic diseases.
• Hemolytic anemia: a characteristic condition with damage to the bone marrow, acute intoxication, chronic diseases of the hematopoietic organs. Accelerated hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells, which contain hemoglobin and iron) also occurs in some genetic pathologies due to violations of the structure of erythrocyte membranes, leading to a decrease in their number. Characteristic symptoms of pathology: a yellowish tint of the skin and eye sclera, in an acute course – a sharp physical weakness, vomiting. Treatment of hemolytic anemia requires treatment of the underlying disease. Lack of timely assistance can lead to the development of hemolytic coma.
• Posthemorrhagic anemia: develops due to blood loss of a different nature. It can occur in both acute and chronic forms.

Depending on the pathological change in the size of erythrocytes, microcytic and macrocytic forms of anemia are distinguished. In the first case, the blood cells seem to shrink, decreasing in volume. When macrocytic – change shape, increase, acquiring the volume of megalocytes. In the normocytic form, the blood cells remain unchanged.

Which doctor to contact in case of anemia

We recommend that you contact a general practitioner if you complain of a deterioration in your well-being. Iron deficiency anemia and other pathological conditions are diagnosed in the laboratory: using a blood test for hemoglobin content.

General analysis determines a critical decrease in the level of protein:

• less than 120 mg/l: mild;
• within 90–70 g/l: moderate;
• less than 70 g/l: serious condition.

At the same time, the test detects the content of erythrocytes in the blood, the leukocyte formula, the presence of markers of inflammation. The doctor receives more detailed information when prescribing tests:

• for ferritin, a protein whose level directly indicates iron content; the analysis is effective for latent anemia accompanied by normal hemoglobin values;
• to transferrin – a transport protein that is contained in blood serum and ensures the transfer of iron to tissues; The test helps in the diagnosis of various forms of pathology.

In addition to the test results, the therapist takes into account the condition of the patient’s skin, hair and nails, examines the sclera of the eyes, palpation determines the condition of the liver and spleen. Thus, the doctor determines which doctors will help treat anemia and the diseases that provoked it – a gastroenterologist, a hepatologist, etc.

If advanced diagnostics is necessary, the therapist can prescribe an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, refer the patient for a consultation with a hematologist. This is a doctor who deals with diseases of the hematopoietic system, including congenital and genetic ones.

Treatment of anemia

Therapy of any form of pathology requires the elimination of the causes. In hemolytic anemia, treatment of concomitant autoimmune processes, the use of glucocorticoid drugs, in severe cases, resuscitation, surgical removal of the spleen is required.

In case of iron deficiency anemia, treatment involves replenishing the existing deficiency of the mineral, as well as vitamins and microelements required for its absorption. With a mild degree, one or more courses of drugs taken orally are enough for this purpose: in tablets or syrup.

In the treatment of acute hemolytic anemia, when iron deficiency is critical and threatens with serious consequences, injectable medicines are indicated: injections and infusions. Droppers for anemia are an effective way to quickly neutralize pathogenic factors and normalize blood composition. In the MedEx clinic, the therapeutic effect is achieved within one procedure by intravenous administration of a modern drug that restores hemoglobin levels and iron stores. As a result of the procedure:

• dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, apathy disappear;
• normalizes metabolism;
• increases energy potential;
• restores the water-lipid balance of the skin.

The procedure is carried out in a comfortable room. The number of sessions is calculated by the doctor depending on the severity of the pathology. If necessary, treatment with droppers is supplemented with a course of injections of vitamin B12. The results of therapy are monitored by repeated blood tests.

Prevention of recurrence of anemia involves a healthy diet: eating red meat, offal, enough cereals, legumes, green vegetables and fruits.

Diagnosis and treatment of anemia in Moscow

Our medical center is equipped with modern diagnostic equipment and specialized specialists with extensive experience. You can contact the manager of the MedEx clinic by phone, via Telegram and WhatsApp messengers, as well as through the feedback form on the website.