Anemia

Anemia is the most common blood disorder and occurs when the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood falls below normal range fro the age and gender of the individual. In addition, the number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) is also decrease. Hemoglobin is the component of red blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. The most common form of anemia is iron-deficiency anemia. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin and a deficiency of iron in the diet results in low levels of haemoglobin. Other causes of iron-deficiency anemia include poor iron absorption in the body and blood loss. This deficiency usually occurs in women of childbearing age but may also occur in infants, children and adolescents during rapid growth spurts. Pernicious anemia is a type of anemia that occurs when a person lacks a substance (intrinsic factor) that is necessary to absorb and process vitamin B12. it is often hereditary and usually occurs in the elderly. Folic acid deficiency anemia is characterized by abnormally large but few red blood cells (megaloblastic). Poor diet with alcoholism is the most common cause of folate deficiency. It is present in malabsorption problems, and certain medications (e.g., anticonvulsant) may also cause folic acid deficiency. Symptoms of this type of anemia include weight loss, diarrhea and reduced exercise endurance.

SYMPTOMS:
• Pallor fatigue
• Reduced exercise endurance and rapid, noticeable heartbeat, sore tongue, loss of appetite, weight loss, memory loss, disturbed gait and balance, and numbness in the hands and feet.
• Weight loss, diarrhea and reduced exercise endurance.


PATIENT ADVICE:

• Eat a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods, e.g., fruits, lean meat, beans, whole-grain bread and green leafy vegetables.
• Too much iron can be dangerous. Excess iron intake has been associated with an increased risk for cirrhosis, cardiomyopathy, diabetes and certain cancers. Iron supplements should be taken only upon the advice of the physician.
• Foods high in folic acid and vitamin B12 include fish, dairy products, meats, legumes, dark leafy vegetables, orange whole grains.
• Consumption of alcohol should be limited and prescribed folic acid supplements should be taken during pregnancy to avoid folic acid-deficiency anemia.
• Make sure to wear shoes or slippers at all times to avoid worm infestations.
• Avoid too much exposure to gasoline products, insecticides, chemicals and other toxic agents as they may also cause anemia.