Anemia - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Types

Below are the factors can increase your risk of developing anemia:

• Lack of Iron In Your Diet: A long-term diet that is low in iron, B12, & folate can lead to anemia. A balanced diet rich in leafy vegetables is advised.
• Genetic Factors: Some types of inherited anemia, like sickle cell anemia, is more prevalent in people of Middle Eastern, Asian, Indian, African, & Mediterranean descent.
• Menstruation: Menstruation can cause a loss of red blood cells. A significant lack of red blood cells over a period of time can lead to anemia.
• Pregnancy: Anemia during pregnancy can be caused by insufficient iron or folate to support your & your growing baby’s bodily needs.
• Chronic Conditions: Chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, cancer, or kidney failure & a compromised immune system can lead to a loss of red blood cells. This can increase your chances of developing anemia.
• Surgery: Post-surgery infections or prosthetic heart valves can cause anemia.
• Medical Disorders: Immune system disorders & disorders related to blood clots can heighten a person’s chances of getting anemia. Some people have an inability to produce a substance in the stomach called the intrinsic factor, this interferes with the body’s B12 absorption, leading to anemia.

Complications of Anemia

Anemia can lead to some long-term health complications including:

• Depression: This is one of the multiple cognitive impacts anemia can have on the brain. Others include anxiety, irritability, & disrupted concentration.
• Long-Term Tiredness: The lack of healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your body’s tissues leads to anemia-related fatigue & weakness.
• Heart Complications: Anemia can cause cardiac stress & lead to an irregularly fast heartbeat, a higher risk of stroke, & heart failure.
• Heightened Risk Of Infections: Anemia can take a toll on your immune system & blood circulation, leading to a greater risk of infections.
• Premature Birth: Maternal anemia developed in the first trimester can lead to a premature birth. However, pregnancy-induced anemia developed in the second & third trimester are less likely to result in a premature delivery.

When should you see a doctor for Anemia?

While weakness & tiredness are common symptoms of anemia, it is always recommended to consult your doctor before taking medication or supplements. In some cases, while your body may be showing symptoms of anemia, it could be caused by another underlying condition that may need medical attention. You should see a doctor if you are experiencing:

• Troubled breathing
• A change in heartbeat
• Unusually heavy periods
• Consistent tiredness or weakness
• Sudden symptoms that are interfering with your everyday life

Treatment of Anemia

What food should I eat to treat anemia?

• Iron: Food rich in iron is recommended to treat anemia caused by iron deficiencies. Dark green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts & seeds, & foods fortified with iron are recommended for vegans, vegetarians, & omnivores.
• Lean Meat: Omnivores are advised to eat poultry, fish, & lean red meat.
• Vitamin C: Foods rich in vitamin C should also be eaten alongside these recommended foods to increase the body’s absorption of nonheme iron.

What food should I avoid to treat Anemia?

Avoid foods high in phytate. Phytic acid blends with iron in the digestive tract; & inhibits the body’s absorption of iron. Foods containing phytates are legumes, whole grains, brown rice, gluten-rich foods, & certain kinds of nuts.

Dietary changes should be made mindfully. As an imbalanced diet can lead to discomfort & deficiencies, it is wise to always consult your doctor before making significant lifestyle changes. Consult a Medcare expert today.