Anemia
Anemia is a medical condition characterized by a low level of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the body. This condition can be caused by various factors such as poor diet, chronic diseases, blood loss, or genetic disorders. Iron deficiency is one of the leading causes of anemia, as iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin. Please keep reading for details on the following topics:
Symptoms of anemia
Diagnosing anemia
Treatment of anemia
What are iron tablets
Side effects of iron tablets
Precautions to take when taking iron tablets
The skin of someone diagnosed with anemia will be pale in comparison to a healthy person
SYMPTOMS OF ANEMIA
Weakness and tiredness
Dizziness
Irritability
Headaches
Paleness
Inability to concentrate
Shortness of breath during exercise
Pale skin
Craving substances that are not food (pica)
Rapid heartbeat
Fragile finger and toenails
Cracked lips
Smooth, sore tongue
Muscle pain during exercise
Difficulty swallowing
This is an example of a fragile fingernail
SYMPTOMS OF ANEMIA IN BABIES AND CHILDREN
Fussiness
Having a short attention span
Slow growth
Delayed walking and talking
DIAGNOSING IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA
Physical exam
An interview will be conducted to obtain information about the symptoms and medical history
A complete blood count (CBC), to measure the size, shape, color and number of blood cells
Iron tests determine the type and severity of the anemia by measuring the amount of iron in the blood
Reticulocyte count to help determine the cause of anemia- Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells produced by bone marrow and released into the bloodstream
A ferritin level test- reflects how much iron may be stored in the body
A fecal occult blood test (FOBT), checks for blood in stool samples
A colonoscopy inspects the entire large intestine (colon) using a long, flexible, instrument to look for causes of bleeding
An upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy uses a thin, flexible, lighted viewing instrument, to help identify causes of bleeding
For a Video capsule endoscopy, the patient swallows a capsule that contains a tiny camera which travels through the body to take pictures of the small intestine to show the location of the bleeding
X-ray tests such as an upper GI series or barium enema
Bone marrow aspiration removes a small amount of bone marrow fluid through a needle inserted into the bone to determine the amount of iron in the body
TREATMENT OF ANEMIA
Iron supplement pills
Foods containing plenty iron
Treating the cause of the anemia
Pregnant women taking prenatal vitamins
A bag containing packet red blood cells to treat someone with anemia
WHAT ARE IRON TABLETS
Iron tablets are often prescribed as a treatment option for anemia caused by iron deficiency. These tablets provide a concentrated source of iron that is absorbed by the body and used to increase the production of red blood cells. Iron tablets come in various forms and strengths and can be an effective way to treat anemia when taken as directed by a healthcare professional.
SIDE EFFECTS OF IRON TABLETS
Stomach discomfort
Nausea
Diarrhea
Constipation
Dark stool
Allergic reaction
PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE WHEN TAKING IRON TABLETS
Iron is absorbed better if taken on an empty stomach
Tablets can be taken with food if stomach problems exist
Any side effects must be reported to the doctor
It is wise to take the tablets with vitamin C to assist with absorption into the body
Avoid taking the tablet within 2 hours of taking antacids or tetracycline (an antibiotic)
Avoid taking the tablet with foods containing caffeine and milk
Avoid taking the tablets without medical advice
Keep iron tablets out of the reach of small children