Hemolytic anemia is a disorder in which the red blood cells are destroyed
too soon.
What causes hemolytic anemia?
- certain medications
- infections
- congenital abnormalities
- autoimmune disorder
What are the symptoms of hemolytic anemia?
The following are the most common symptoms for hemolytic anemia, however,
each individual may experience symptoms differently.
- fatigue
- paleness
- increased heart rate
- breathlessness
- yellowish skin (jaundice)
- dark, tea-colored urine
- enlarged spleen
The symptoms of hemolytic anemia may resemble other blood disorders or
medical problems. Consult your physician for a diagnosis.
How is hemolytic anemia diagnosed?
Hemolytic anemia is usually discovered during a medical examination through
a routine blood test. In addition to a complete medical history and physical
examination, diagnostic procedures for hemolytic anemia may include additional blood tests and other evaluation procedures, particularly to check for an enlarged spleen or liver.
Treatment for hemolytic anemia:
Specific treatment for hemolytic anemia will be determined by your physician(s)
based on:
- your overall health and medical history
- extent of the disease
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the disease
- your opinion or preference
Hemolytic anemia is difficult to treat, and treatment depends on the
cause.
Treatment may include:
- vitamin and mineral supplements
- change in diet
- medication
- treatment of the causative disease
- removal of the spleen
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Source: Your Health Encyclopedia, 4-rd Edition, 2002
Last Revised at December 6, 2007 by Amalia K. Gagarina, M.S., R.D.
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