Anemia
Key points
- Anemia is a lower than normal number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the blood, usually measured by a decrease in the amount of Hemoglobin.
- Potential causes include blood loss, nutritional deficits, many diseases, medication reactions, and various problems with the bone marrow.
- He or she will look for the presence of a pale complexion and rapid heart rate.
- Treatment should be directed at the cause of the anemia.
Definition
Anemia is a lower than normal number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the blood, usually measured by a decrease in the amount of Hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the red pigment in red blood cells that transports oxygen.
There are many types and potential causes of anemia. For information about a specific type of anemia, see one of the following articles:
- anemia - B12 deficiency
- anemia - folate deficiency
- anemia - Iron Deficiency
- anemia of chronic disease
- hemolytic anemia
- hemolytic anemia - G-6-PD deficiency
- idiopathic aplastic anemia
- idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia
- immune hemolytic anemia
- immune hemolytic anemia - drug-induced
- megaloblastic anemia
- pernicious anemia
- secondary aplastic anemia
- Sickle cell anemia
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
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. Iron deficiency anemia is most common in women who have heavy Menstrual Periods.
Risk factors include heavy periods, pregnancy, older age, and diseases that cause anemia.
Symptoms
Possible symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Chest pain - angina
- Shortness of breath
Signs and tests
The doctor will perform a physical examination. He or she will look for the presence of a pale complexion and rapid heart rate.
Anemia can be confirmed by a red blood count or hemoglobin level. Other tests depend on the type of anemia.
Treatment
Treatment should be directed at the cause of the anemia. In some cases, blood transfusions and the medication erythropoeitin will correct anemia.
Frequently asked questions
What is anemia?
Anemia is a lower than normal number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the blood, usually measured by a decrease in the amount of Hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the red pigment in red blood cells that transports oxygen. There are many types and potential causes of anemia.
What are the risk factors for anemia?
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. Iron deficiency anemia is most common in women who have heavy Menstrual Periods. Risk factors include heavy periods, pregnancy, older age, and diseases that cause anemia.
What are the symptoms of anemia?
Possible symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Chest pain - angina
- Shortness of breath
How is anemia treated?
Treatment should be directed at the cause of the anemia. In some cases, blood transfusions and the medication erythropoeitin will correct anemia.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.