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Home: Related Information
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Definition: Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein inside red blood cells. It gives red blood cells their red color. People with anemia do not have enough hemoglobin. See also:
Causes, incidence, and risk factors: The cause depends on the type of anemia. Possible causes include: - Certain medications
- Diseases such as cancer or rheumatoid arthritis
- Genes -- some forms of anemia can be inherited
- Kidney failure
- Blood loss (for example, from heavy menstrual periods)
- Poor diet
- Pregnancy
- Problems with bone marrow (where blood cells are made)
- Problems with the immune system that cause the destruction of blood cells
- Surgery to the stomach or intestines that reduces the absorption of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid
Symptoms: Possible symptoms include: Some types of anemia may have other symptoms, such as:
Signs and tests: The doctor will perform a physical examination, and may find: - Pale skin
- Rapid heart rate
Some types of anemia may cause other findings on a physical exam. The following blood tests are used to diagnose anemia: Other tests may be done to identify medical problems that can cause anemia.
Treatment: Treatment should be directed at the cause of the anemia, and may include: - Blood transfusions
- Corticosteroids or other medicines that suppress the immune system
- Erythropoietin, a medicine that helps your bone marrow make more blood cells
- Supplements of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, or other vitamins and minerals
Expectations (prognosis): The outlook depends on the cause.
Complications: Severe anemia can cause low oxygen levels in vital organs such as the heart, and can lead to a heart attack .
Calling your health care provider: Call your health provider if you have any symptoms of anemia, or any unusual bleeding.
References: Antony AC. Megaloblastic anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 170. Zuckerman KS. Approach to the anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 162.
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| Review Date: 4/5/2009
Reviewed By: Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc
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