Emedicinehealth com. Comprehensive Guide to Medical Emergencies, Diseases, and Health Information
What are the most common medical emergencies and how to recognize them. How to identify and treat various diseases across different medical specialties. What are the latest developments in health information and patient care.
Recognizing and Responding to Medical Oncologic Emergencies
Medical oncologic emergencies require swift recognition and intervention. Healthcare professionals must be prepared to identify and manage these critical situations effectively. Let’s explore nine key oncologic emergencies that demand immediate attention:
- Febrile neutropenia
- Hypercalcemia of malignancy
- Tumor lysis syndrome
- Spinal cord compression
- Superior vena cava syndrome
- Cardiac tamponade
- Malignant bowel obstruction
- Hyperviscosity syndrome
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation
Are you familiar with the symptoms of febrile neutropenia? This condition is characterized by fever (>38.3°C or >101°F) in a patient with an absolute neutrophil count below 500 cells/μL. Prompt administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial in managing this potentially life-threatening complication.
How can you identify hypercalcemia of malignancy? Patients may present with symptoms such as confusion, lethargy, constipation, and polyuria. Treatment typically involves aggressive hydration, bisphosphonates, and addressing the underlying malignancy.
Understanding and Managing Medically Significant Spider Bites
While most spider bites are harmless, some species can pose significant health risks to humans. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potentially dangerous spider species in their region and the appropriate treatment protocols for their bites.
Venomous Spiders of Concern in North America
- Black widow (Latrodectus species)
- Brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa)
- Hobo spider (Eratigena agrestis)
- Yellow sac spider (Cheiracanthium species)
Do you know how to identify a black widow spider bite? These bites often cause intense pain at the site, which can spread to other areas of the body. Systemic symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and muscle rigidity. Treatment typically involves pain management and, in severe cases, administration of antivenom.
What are the characteristics of a brown recluse spider bite? Initially painless, these bites can develop into a necrotic lesion over several days. Treatment focuses on wound care and management of systemic symptoms, which may include fever, chills, and joint pain.
Navigating Common Back-to-School Illnesses in 2023
As students return to classrooms, healthcare providers should be prepared for an uptick in common childhood illnesses. Familiarity with these conditions can help ensure prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Prevalent Classroom Contagions
- Streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat)
- Influenza
- Gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Head lice
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
How can you differentiate between viral and bacterial pharyngitis? Strep throat, caused by group A Streptococcus, typically presents with sudden onset of sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Rapid strep tests and throat cultures can confirm the diagnosis, allowing for targeted antibiotic treatment when necessary.
What are the key features of hand, foot, and mouth disease? This viral infection commonly affects young children and is characterized by fever, sore throat, and a distinctive rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. While usually self-limiting, proper hygiene practices are crucial to prevent its spread in school settings.
Recognizing and Addressing Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Individuals
Although rare in young people, sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a devastating event that requires immediate action and thorough investigation. Understanding the risk factors and potential causes can help healthcare providers identify at-risk individuals and implement preventive measures.
Common Causes of Sudden Cardiac Death in the Young
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Congenital coronary artery anomalies
- Long QT syndrome
- Brugada syndrome
- Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
- Myocarditis
- Commotio cordis
How can healthcare providers screen for conditions that predispose to SCD? A comprehensive approach includes thorough personal and family history, physical examination, and electrocardiogram (ECG). In some cases, additional tests such as echocardiography or genetic testing may be warranted.
What is the role of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in preventing SCD? Widespread availability of AEDs in schools, sports facilities, and public spaces can significantly improve survival rates in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Training staff and students in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and AED use is crucial for effective emergency response.
Diagnosing and Treating Lyme Disease: A Comprehensive Approach
Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through tick bites, presents unique diagnostic and treatment challenges. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for preventing long-term complications.
Stages of Lyme Disease
- Early localized stage
- Early disseminated stage
- Late disseminated stage
What is the hallmark sign of early Lyme disease? The characteristic erythema migrans rash, often described as a “bull’s-eye” pattern, appears in approximately 70-80% of infected individuals. However, atypical rash presentations can occur, particularly in people with darker skin tones.
How should Lyme disease be treated? Antibiotic therapy is the mainstay of treatment, with the specific regimen depending on the stage of the disease and the patient’s age. Doxycycline is commonly used for adults and children over 8 years old, while amoxicillin is preferred for younger children and pregnant women.
Navigating Opioid-Related Emergencies: Recognition and Management
The ongoing opioid epidemic has led to an increase in opioid-related emergencies presenting to healthcare facilities. Understanding the various complications associated with opioid use is crucial for effective patient care.
Common Opioid-Related Emergencies
- Opioid overdose
- Withdrawal syndrome
- Infectious endocarditis
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Acute lung injury
- Cerebral hypoxia
What are the signs of opioid overdose? The classic triad includes pinpoint pupils, respiratory depression, and decreased level of consciousness. Prompt administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist, can reverse these life-threatening effects.
How should opioid withdrawal be managed? Treatment focuses on symptom management and may include medications such as clonidine, loperamide, and ondansetron. For patients seeking long-term treatment, medication-assisted therapy with buprenorphine or methadone may be appropriate.
Essential Knowledge for Identifying and Treating Bug Bites
While most bug bites are merely a nuisance, some can lead to serious health complications. Healthcare providers should be familiar with the various types of bug bites and their potential consequences.
Potentially Harmful Insects and Arachnids
- Ticks (various species)
- Mosquitoes
- Bed bugs
- Fleas
- Fire ants
- Bees and wasps
- Scorpions
How can you differentiate between different tick-borne illnesses? While Lyme disease is the most well-known, other tick-borne diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis have distinct clinical presentations. A thorough history, including travel and exposure details, is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
What are the potential complications of mosquito bites? Beyond local reactions, mosquitoes can transmit various pathogens, including West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria. Healthcare providers should be aware of endemic mosquito-borne diseases in their region and consider these in patients presenting with compatible symptoms.
Preparing Patients for International Travel: Disease Prevention and Management
As global travel becomes increasingly common, healthcare providers play a crucial role in preparing patients for potential health risks associated with their destinations. Understanding endemic diseases and appropriate preventive measures is essential for ensuring safe and healthy travel experiences.
Common Travel-Related Diseases
- Traveler’s diarrhea
- Malaria
- Yellow fever
- Dengue fever
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid fever
- Japanese encephalitis
What vaccinations should be considered for international travel? The recommended immunizations depend on the destination, duration of stay, and the traveler’s health status. Common travel vaccines include hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Routine vaccinations should also be up to date.
How can travelers prevent malaria? In addition to antimalarial medications, travelers should be advised on mosquito bite prevention strategies, such as using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets in high-risk areas.
This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of medical emergencies, diseases, and health information across various specialties. Healthcare providers can use this knowledge to enhance their diagnostic skills, treatment approaches, and patient education efforts. As medical science continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest developments in these areas is crucial for providing optimal patient care.
Diseases & Conditions – Medscape Reference
Medically Significant Spider Bites: Which to Watch Out For
Treating venomous spider bites requires knowledge of the involved species. Learn which spiders may pose a hazard to humans.July 25, 2023
9 Medical Oncologic Emergencies You Need to Know
These nine medical emergencies in patients with cancer require quick action; here’s what you need to know to recognize them and intervene appropriately.July 24, 2023
Back-to-School Illnesses: Classroom Contagions in 2023
Refresh yourself on the presentations of these common classroom illnesses as the 2023-2024 school season begins.July 20, 2023
Sudden Cardiac Death
Sudden cardiac death is rare in the young ( Medscape Features Slideshows, July 13, 2023
Lyme Disease
The nymphs of the ticks that spread Lyme disease are so small they can be mistaken for environmental particles, and some symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses. Do you know what to look for?
July 10, 2023
11 Opioid-Related Emergencies: When Highs May Become Fatal
The opioid epidemic contributes not only to mortality but also to a variety of organ system complications. Learn more about 11 opioid-related emergencies.
June 30, 2023
7 Bug Bites You Need to Know
Most insects and arachnids are benign, but some can inflict painful injuries or transmit dangerous pathogens. Learn more about the potentially harmful effects of lice, ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests.
June 23, 2023
10 Travel Diseases You Need to Know
Many infectious diseases are endemic to popular travel locations. Here is information on vaccinations and precautions your patients need to take to avoid illness on their next trip.
June 13, 2023
Identifying Lesions on Skin of Color
As US population demographics change, clinicians need to be familiar with variations in the prevalence and clinical presentation of dermatologic disease in people with skin of color. Learn how to recognize various lesions on skin of color.
June 1, 2023
Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Review of 3 Cases and Palliative Care
Metastatic breast cancer, or stage IV or advanced breast cancer, is incurable, with a low 5-year survival. Review the symptoms/signs of metastatic spread and 3 patient cases, as well as guidelines for, barriers to, and opportunities for improvement in palliative care.
May 25, 2023
10 Erythema Conditions You Should Know
Erythema is a common but nonspecific condition of the skin or mucous membranes that may signify inflammation, infection, injury, or skin irritation. Learn more about 10 diseases with this feature.
Medscape Features Slideshows, May 17, 2023
Animal Bites: What You Need to Know
Animal bites contribute significantly to US emergency department visits each year. Learn about the most common animal bites and their complications.
May 8, 2023
A Lump in the Throat: Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system, and the eleventh most common cancer in the United States. How familiar are you with its management?
April 25, 2023
Dermatologic Signs of Nutritional Deficiencies
Many diseases are directly or indirectly caused by a lack of essential nutrients in the diet. Can you spot the clues on the skin and mucosal surfaces that indicate nutritional deficiencies?
April 25, 2023
All About Allergies: Be Ready for Spring
In addition to the common ragweed, other pollinating weeds (eg, Russian thistle), trees, grasses, and molds can cause seasonal allergies. Learn about the different seasonal allergens and their current treatments.
April 24, 2023
Osteoporosis: A Bare-Bones Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment
Osteoporosis-the most common human bone disease-is usually clinically silent until a fracture occurs. What are the best ways of detecting and managing it?
April 21, 2023
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Yellow diarrhea: causes, methods of treatment and prevention in adults
Author, editor and medical expert – Zavgorodnyaya Ekaterina Aleksandrovna.
Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.
Number of views: 1 320 410
Date last updated: 2 Contents:
Causes of yellow stool in an adult
Treatment
What medicines can the doctor prescribe?
Normal stool has an elongated “sausage” shape, soft texture, and color in different shades of brown 1 . Unusual yellow or orange coloration of stools may be quite normal 1 , but if loose yellow stools are persistent or recur from time to time, a medical examination may be warranted. We talk about the causes of yellow feces with diarrhea and the treatment of diarrhea in the article.
Causes of yellow stool in an adult
Brown stool is associated with the “dye” stercobilin 1 . It is formed from the bile enzyme bilirubin after it is processed by intestinal bacteria 1 . A smaller amount of stercobilin and different impurities can give the feces different shades of yellow 1 . Let’s figure out how this happens.
Diseases of the gallbladder
The gallbladder secretes bile in portions when we eat something. This synchrony is disturbed by inflammation of the gallbladder, its absence, or problems with the movement of bile through the biliary tract (dyskinesia) 10 . Bile, which enters the intestines at the wrong time, does not find food there that needs to be digested. Free bile speeds up the work of the intestines and increases the release of fluid into its lumen, so the stool becomes liquid 9 . And since “pure” bilirubin enters the feces, which did not have time to turn into stercobilin, diarrhea and golden yellow stools occur 9.10 .
Nutrition
Loose yellow stools are common among dairy drinkers 12 . Fats and milk sugar in their composition digest the enzymes of the digestive system. But if there is too much “milk” in the diet, enzymes may not be enough. Part of the milk sugar is not digested and develops a syndrome of malabsorption – impaired digestion and absorption. It manifests as diarrhea with yellow stools 12 .
Yellow loose stools may occur with excessive consumption of 3 :
- animal milk;
- sour cream and yogurt;
- cottage cheese and curd products;
- kefir, curdled milk and acidophilus;
- hard and soft cheeses;
- butter.
Lactase deficiency
Sometimes the body is not able to digest milk sugar due to a deficiency of the necessary enzyme – lactase. The problem is quite common – lactase deficiency is present in 20% of people. It can be a congenital feature of digestion, a manifestation of food allergies or intestinal diseases 3,8,12 .
Undigested lactose is fermented by intestinal bacteria, but some of the milk sugar remains unprocessed and, getting into the stool, turns it yellow. Diarrhea usually bothers even if you eat very little dairy products, and is accompanied by bloating and pain in the abdomen 3.8 .
Celiac disease
In celiac disease, the body cannot tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley and oats 2 Not only cereals from these cereals are rich in cereals, but also ordinary bakery products, pasta, pastries, breakfast cereals, even “crab” meat and sticks 4 .
If you eat a gluten product, an autoimmune reaction occurs in the intestines of a person with celiac disease: immune cells attack not only gluten, but also partially intestinal cells 2,4 . The symptom of this reaction is diarrhea with yellow frothy stools and a very unpleasant odor 2.4 .
Some drugs
The color of the stool may change under the influence of various drugs taken by mouth.
Laxatives
After taking strong laxatives (senna, rhubarb) diarrhea with yellow stools is possible. Diarrhea usually occurs if you exceed the recommended dosage or use the medicine too often 1.8 .
Slimming drugs
Some drugs, such as orlistat, interfere with the absorption of fat from food, it is excreted in the feces, so the stool becomes yellow. There may be no diarrhea, but the stool becomes softer and bulkier 2 .
Antibiotics
Diarrhea with golden yellow stools often occurs during antibiotic therapy or some time after the end of the course 1 . In this case, changes in the color and consistency of feces are due to the fact that antibiotics suppress the normal intestinal microflora, causing dysbacteriosis 1 .
Note!
Almost always, stool changes color in those who have recently had an X-ray of the gastrointestinal tract. Before the study, a person is given a drink of a chalky suspension – barium sulfate, so that it makes the digestive tract visible on the X-ray. But, getting into the feces, barium sulfate gives it a light yellow or white color 1 .
Intestinal infections
Stools in the form of “pea puree” – thin, yellow-orange color – a clear sign of typhoid fever 1 . This infectious disease is caused by the intestinal bacteria Salmonella, which are usually transmitted through food or water 5 .
Chronic bowel disease
If there is chronic inflammation in the bowel, you may occasionally experience green or yellow jelly-like stools with a fever. And with purulent processes in the large intestine, feces take on the appearance of coffee with milk or cream: clots of dead immune and intestinal cells give the feces a light yellow color 1. 11 .
Treatment
Since the causes of yellow loose stools are varied, do not self-diagnose – consult a specialist. Only after analyzing the specific situation and additional studies, the general practitioner or gastroenterologist can establish a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
While waiting to see a specialist, it is recommended:
Drink plenty of fluids
Regardless of the cause, there is a risk of dehydration with diarrhea. Its first signs are dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, rare urination with a small volume of urine of a saturated color. These symptoms can appear even with mild diarrhea. To compensate for the loss of fluid, a person with diarrhea needs to receive a sufficient amount of fluid (1.5-2.5 liters per day) in the form of fruit drink, rosehip infusion, weak tea or water acidified with lemon or
cranberry extract 5 . Tea, coffee, cocoa, fruit drinks and juices can be consumed when you are on a gluten-free diet 4 .
Follow a diet
Until the stool normalizes, it is better to exclude fatty and fried foods, smoked meats, canned food, any beans, beets, cucumbers, radishes, citrus fruits, pears, plums and grapes from the diet 7.12 . If you have gluten intolerance or problems digesting lactose, eliminate dairy products and baked goods from your diet 4 .
Choose lean meats, fish or poultry 7 . We recommend eating them boiled, pureed or steamed 12 .
What medicines can the doctor prescribe?
There is no universal tablet for yellow diarrhea. The doctor can recommend medicines from different groups 8 :
- rehydrators — to restore the water-salt balance in the body;
- enterosorbents – removing toxins and excess fluid from the intestines;
- enzymes – facilitating digestion;
- intestinal antiseptics and antibiotics – to fight infection;
- anti-inflammatory drugs – for chronic bowel diseases;
- pre- and probiotics – to normalize the microflora;
- antidiarrheals containing loperamide – to relieve the symptoms of diarrhea.
Loperamide is the active ingredient in Imodium® Express 13 . It is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of diarrhea caused by a change in diet or diet, drug use, or intestinal malabsorption 13 . In acute infectious diarrhea, Imodium® Express is used as an adjuvant 9 . Imodium® Express lyophilisate tablets with special Zaydis technology dissolve on the tongue in 3 seconds and do not require drinking water 13 . The effect of the drug begins from the first application 14 .
Please note!
If you notice blood in your stool and you have a fever, do not take antidiarrheal medicines, call your doctor 13 .
The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.
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Foods that increase blood hemoglobin
How much hemoglobin does the body need?
One of the most common diseases is hemoglobin deficiency. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells (erythrocytes) that is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
Vera Afanasieva
general practitioner, head of the therapeutic department LLC “Institute of Health”
– When the level of hemoglobin decreases, a person feels tired, weak, shortness of breath, headache. If hemoglobin drops significantly, anemia begins. Often products that increase hemoglobin help solve the problem. We will figure out in which cases it is enough to adjust the diet, and when it is necessary to take more serious measures.
Most blood cells, including red blood cells, are made in the bone marrow, a spongy material found in the cavities of many large bones. Red blood cells live in the bloodstream for about 120 days.
The body needs iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and other nutrients from food to produce hemoglobin and red blood cells.
Reference
Hemoglobin is defined as the amount of hemoglobin in grams (g) per deciliter (dL) of whole blood, a deciliter being 100 milliliters.
The level of hemoglobin in the body depends on the age and gender of the person. Since there are different test systems, normal values may vary slightly (approximately within 0.5 g / dl).
Age | Reference values (g/dl) | Mean value (g/dl) |
---|---|---|
newborns | 13.5–24.0 | 16.5 |
up to 1 month | 10.0–20.0 | 13.9 |
1–2 months | 10.0–18.0 | 11.2 |
2–6 months | 9.5–14.0 | 12.6 |
0.5–2 years | 10.5–13.5 | 12.0 |
2–6 years | 11.5–13.5 | 12.5 |
6–12 years old | 11.5–15.5 | 13.5 |
Girls 12–18 years old | 12. 0–16.0 | 14.0 |
Women over 18 | 12.1–15.1 | 14.0 |
Boys 12–18 years old | 13.0–16.0 | 14.5 |
Men over 18 | 13.6–17.7 | 15.5 |
https://www.emedicinehealth.com/hemoglobin_levels/article_em.htm
Types of anemia and their causes
There are many forms of anemia, each with a different cause. Anemia can be temporary or long lasting and range from mild to severe.
- Iron deficiency anemia – the most common, caused by iron deficiency in the body, without which the bone marrow cannot produce the necessary amount of hemoglobin for red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by blood loss, such as from heavy menstrual bleeding, stomach or small intestine ulcers, or colon cancer. Also, iron deficiency anemia can begin due to the regular use of certain painkillers, such as aspirin. Aspirin provokes inflammation of the stomach lining, which leads to blood loss. It is very important to determine the true cause of iron deficiency in order to prevent anemia.
- Folate deficiency anemia – caused by a lack of folic acid (vitamin B9), often accompanies iron deficiency and B12 deficiency anemia. Vitamin B9 is synthesized by the intestinal microflora, and also enters the body as part of the folate contained in plant foods.
- Avitaminous (pernicious, B12 deficiency) anemia is an autoimmune disease in which vitamin B12 is not absorbed. In order to produce enough healthy red blood cells, the body needs folic acid and vitamin B12 in addition to iron.
- Aplastic anemia – rare and life-threatening. Occurs when bone marrow stem cells do not produce enough red blood cells. Aplastic anemia is caused by infections, certain drugs (such as antiretrovirals), autoimmune diseases, and exposure to toxic chemicals.
- Hemolytic anemia – occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can replace them. Some blood disorders increase the destruction of red blood cells. Hemolytic anemia can be hereditary or develop during life.
- Sickle cell anemia is an inherited form of anemia, sometimes a type of hemolytic anemia. Caused by defective hemoglobin, which causes red blood cells to take on an unusual crescent (sickle) shape. These blood cells die prematurely, resulting in a chronic shortage of red blood cells.
Who is at risk?
People with the conditions listed below should be especially careful and have their hemoglobin levels checked regularly.
Anemia can be caused by:
- Immune and inflammatory diseases such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis: interfere with the production of red blood cells.
- Diseases of the bone marrow – leukemia, myelofibrosis, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndrome: affect the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
- Intestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease: interfere with the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.
- Chronic kidney disease: interfere with the production of red blood cells, because the kidneys synthesize a hormone that signals the bone marrow to produce new red blood cells.
- Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly): The spleen filters red blood cells as they travel through the body – trapping and destroying damaged or dying red blood cells. An enlarged spleen holds on to more red blood cells than necessary, interrupting the life of these cells prematurely.
- Thalassemia: a blood disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin and red blood cells.
- Chemotherapy: May affect bone marrow cells by reducing the number of red blood cells it produces.
But healthy people can also be at risk.
Factors that can also trigger the development of anemia:
- Diet low in iron, vitamin B12, folic acid and copper.
- Menstruation . To replace the hemoglobin lost during menstruation, women need about twice as much iron as men, as well as women after menopause.
- Pregnancy . Refusal to take multivitamins with folic acid and iron increases the risk of developing iron deficiency and folate deficiency anemia.
- Alcohol . Alcohol abuse can affect the production of red blood cells.
- Age . People over the age of 65 are at an increased risk of developing anemia.
Symptoms of low hemoglobin
Decreased hemoglobin is indicated by: fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, cold hands and feet, headaches.
At first, anemia can be so mild that it is hard to notice. But as it worsens, the symptoms worsen.
How to treat low hemoglobin
Treatment options for anemia depend on the cause and range from taking dietary supplements to medical procedures.
If, as a result of the diagnosis, iron deficiency or folic deficiency anemia is detected, the doctor will recommend diversifying the diet with foods rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12, and will also prescribe appropriate dietary supplements.
If the root cause lies in a serious disease, then it is necessary to treat it.
What causes prolonged anemia
If anemia is started, the following health problems may begin:
- Extreme fatigue . Severe anemia can make you so tired that you can’t perform daily tasks.
- Complications during pregnancy . Folic deficiency anemia is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it can provoke malformations of the fetal nervous system, and also increases the risk of placental abruption and premature birth.
- Heart problems . Anemia can lead to arrhythmia (a fast or irregular heartbeat). In anemia, the heart pumps more blood to make up for the lack of oxygen in the blood. This can lead to an enlarged heart or heart failure.
- Death . Some hereditary anemias, such as sickle cell anemia, can lead to life-threatening complications. Loss of large amounts of blood quickly leads to acute, severe anemia and even death. For older people, anemia can be deadly.
What can cause high hemoglobin levels?
A high level of hemoglobin leads to an increased concentration of red blood cells, which makes the blood more viscous and dense. This can threaten high blood pressure, thrombosis, embolism (the presence in the bloodstream of “wandering” blood clots that are not attached to the vessel wall by a leg), myocardial infarction and stroke.
– With increased hemoglobin, the blood supply to organs and tissues worsens, as with reduced hemoglobin, adds Vera Afanasyeva .
Hemoglobin levels become too high when the body needs increased oxygen carrying capacity. In healthy people, as a rule, the causes of increased hemoglobin can be as follows:
- Lack of oxygen:
– High concentration of carbon dioxide in the air (smokers and residents of megacities are at risk).
– Living at high altitude – to compensate for the lack of oxygen, the production of red blood cells naturally increases.
- Deficiency of fluid in the body: may occur during drying, strict diet, dehydration.
- Active sports: Intense cardio and sports such as athletics require more oxygen, which causes the body to produce more hemoglobin.
Also, hemoglobin can increase due to problems with the heart and lungs – if they cannot cope, then the production of red blood cells increases to maintain the required amount of oxygen in the body.
In addition to these reasons, a high level of hemoglobin can be caused by diseases such as congenital heart disease, exacerbation of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), dehydration, emphysema, kidney cancer, liver cancer, polycythemia vera.
How to increase hemoglobin
A balanced diet with a focus on important nutrients is the best way to maintain healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin.
The diet must include red meat, liver, fish, leafy vegetables (cabbage, spinach), lentils, beans, peas, nuts and dried berries.
Unfortunately, with the help of a properly selected diet, you can only get rid of iron deficiency and folate deficiency anemia. A diet with low hemoglobin should include foods containing iron, vitamins B9 and B12, as well as vitamins and minerals that promote iron absorption.
Iron – found in beef and other meats, liver, eggs, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables (cabbage, spinach) and dried fruits. (Top list of foods high in iron).
Vitamin B12 – found in meat, dairy products, and fortified cereals and soy products. (Top list of foods high in vitamin B12).
Folic acid (vitamin B9) – Found in sweet peppers, bananas, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, dark green leafy vegetables, green peas, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, asparagus and fortified grains such as like bread, cereals, pasta and rice.
Product | Amount of folic acid (µg/100 g) |
---|---|
Peanut | 240 |
Sunflower seeds | 227 |
Parsley | 110 |
Beans, grain | 90 |
Lentils | 90 |
Spinach | 80 |
Broccoli | 63 |
Green coriander (cilantro) | 62 |
Pumpkin seeds | 58 |
Asparagus | 52 |
Buckwheat, core | 32 |
Brussels sprouts | 31 |
Cauliflower | 23 |
Green peas, fresh | 20 |
Rice white | 19 |
Bell pepper | 17 |
Beet | 13 |
Banana | 10 |
https://health-diet. ru/calorie
Iron absorption is promoted by copper and vitamin C.
Copper – a lot in beef liver, seafood (shrimp, crabs), it is also found in seeds, nuts, mushrooms, chocolate.
Vitamin C – they are rich in oranges, lemons, grapefruits, bell peppers, kiwi, tomatoes, broccoli, melon and strawberries.
If you have a low level of hemoglobin, it is better to limit the consumption of foods containing polyphenols, tannins, phytates, oxalic acid, such as tea, coffee, cocoa, soy products and bran, emphasizes Vera Afanasyeva . “They interfere with the absorption of iron.
You should be careful with calcium-rich foods and calcium supplements – they also make it difficult for the absorption of iron.
For people who, for one reason or another, do not eat animal products, with low hemoglobin, special attention should be paid to the following fruits and vegetables:
- Beetroot is one of the best foods to increase hemoglobin levels.