Overview

Anemia is condition that occurs due to the lack of healthy red blood cells (RBC) which carries oxygen tot the the tissues in the body. Due to anemia person’s energy gets depleted and he feels tired. Person suffering from chronic disease are more prone to Anemia.

The body mainly consumes iron,vitamins and proteins from diet to produce red blood cell. When person’s diet lack such items, red blood cells count gets lowered and which gradually reduces the amount of oxygen carried to the body tissue.

Types

Anemia comes in different types showing different symptoms ranging from different time levels.The classification is mainly done on basis of morphology of RBC’s, underlying etiologic mechanisms, discernible clinical spectra, and more. The treatment for each type of anemia vary from each other. The three main kind of anemia is caused by blood loss, blood cell destruction and deficient RBC production.

Symptoms

The main symptom of anemia is fatigue. If the person remains affected from anemia longer the symptoms may get increased and even worst. General symptoms seen in anemic person includes cold, weak, dizzy and irritable which is accompanied by shortness of breath, impaired memory, chest pain and difficulty in swallowing.

Causes

The main cause for anemia is the loss of blood, deficient production of RBC, deficiency of iron , Vitamin B12 and proteins. Loss of too much blood due to menstrual cycle or due to an injury may also lead to anemia. A long term cancer, infection, genetic disorders and kidney disease may some times lead to anemia.

Test

Anemia can be diagnosed by series of tests which include blood smear test, bone marrow test, serum iron test and complete blood count. The test used to diagnose anemia mainly depends on the causing factor.

Treatment

Anemia may be treated by providing the patient with required supplements or proteins. More nutritious food, a healthier diet should be taken in order to increase the RBC count. Food such as beef, lentils, dark green leafy vegitables are enriched with various vitamins which can reduce the risk of anemia. Blood transfusion is needed when the anemia is caused due to blood loss. Proper medication and healthy food is the best way to cure anemia.