Iron-deficiency anemia definition:
Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. It is the lack
of iron in the blood, which is necessary to make hemoglobin.
Iron-deficiency anemia is believed to be due to:
- blood loss
- poor diet
- an increased need for iron
- an underlying condition
Suggested risk factors include:
- not eating an iron-rich diet that contains green leafy vegetables,
meats, fish, poultry, and eggs.
- growth spurts in children and adolescents.
- pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- other medical conditions.
Iron-deficiency anemia symptoms:
The following are the most common symptoms for iron-deficiency anemia,
however, each individual may experience symptoms differently:
- fatigue
- pale skin, lips, nails, palms of hands, and underside of the eyelids
The symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia may resemble other blood disorders
or medical problems. Consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Iron-deficiency anemia diagnosis:
Iron-deficiency 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 iron-deficiency anemia
may include additional blood tests and other evaluation procedures.
Iron-deficiency anemia treatment:
Specific treatment for iron-deficiency 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
Treatment may include:
- vitamin and mineral supplements, which include dibencozide, folic
acid, vitamin B-6, All-1 Powder, Liquid Liver Extract
- change in diet, nutritional yeast flakes, pumpkin seeds, & molasses
- medication
- treatment of the underlying cause of the disease
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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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