Anemia is a condition that is characterized by a lower than normal number of red blood cells in the blood, usually measured by a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein, and is the red pigment in red blood cells that transports oxygen.
If you, or a loved one experiences any of the symptoms of Anemia there are plenty of ways to remedy, primarily diet, and often nutritional supplements, vitamins and just plain old better nutrition.
There are many types and causes of anemia. Understanding which type you or a loved one has is important. Some common types include sickle cell anemia, hemolytic anemia, and pernicious anemia. Anemia can also result from nutritional deficiencies, such as B12, folate and iron.
The cause varies with the type of anemia. Potential causes include blood loss, nutritional deficits, many diseases, medication reactions, and various problems with the bone marrow.
Possible symptoms include fatigue, angina, and shortness of breath. Anemia can be confirmed by a red blood count or hemoglobin level test. Other tests depend on the type of anemia.
Treatment is directed at the cause of the anemia, and includes blood transfusions and the medication erythropoietin.
There's an online health community called Free Drug List that allows you to become a member in a free health bases community, whereby you can ask questions and get answers to many common and not-so-common health concerns. Please visit the Free Drug List today!
Reference:
Rice, Jane. (2005). Medical Terminology with Human Anatomy, fifth edition. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, Inc.
