Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron Deficiency Anemia

This is the most prevalent type of anemia of all age. In this condition there is decrease in the red blood cell synthesis in the body.Main function of RBCs is to deliver oxygen to tissues.

Symptoms

During the mild form of iron deficiency the condition is asymptomatic but as the deficiency increases following signs and symptoms are shown;IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA SYMPTOMS CAUSES TREATMENT

  • Skin become pale
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Increase heart beat
  • Hand and feet become cold.
  • Lightheadedness,dizziness
  • Brittle nails
  • Inflammation of tongue.
  • Decrease in appetite
  • Increase cravings for usual things like dirt etc condition known as Pica
Causes

Iron is an essential part of haemoglobin. Without iron haemoglobin can’t be produce resulting in the deficiency of red blood cells and deprivation of oxygen in tissues. This is caused when iron stores in the body are depleted for example in a severe blood loss in accident or during menstruation, chronic blood loss in the stomch due to ulcers. If your diet lacks iron or you have a condition which makes iron unable to absorb from gut or during pregnancy when demand of iron increases all lead to the development of iron deficiency anemia.

Complications

Mild form of iron deficiency anemia don’t causeknow severe complications however, intense deficiency can cause following complications:

Diagnosis

Following tests are done to diagnose:

  • Blood test to detect the shape and count of blood cells.
  • Hematocrit check.
  • Haemoglobin levels test.
  • Level of ferritin in the plasma.
  • Ultrasound, endoscopy and colonoscopy are sometimes done to rule out the cause of anemia.
Treatment

Main treatment options for this type of anemia are as follows;

  • Doctor can prescribe iron supplements to be taken in empty stomach.
  • Accompanying vitamin C supplements with iron tablets.
  • Antacid is contraindicated with iron supplements.
  • Stool lubricants and softener are also prescribed as iron supplements causes constipation.
  • To get underlying cause treated is the major treatment for anemia itself.
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