ANEMIA

Definition

Anemia is a condition where there is a lower than normal number of red blood cells in the blood, usually measured by a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying part of red blood cells. It gives these blood cells their red color.
There are many types and potential causes of anemia. For information about a specific type of anemia, see one of the following articles:

Anemia due to B12 deficiency
Anemia due to folate deficiency
Anemia due to iron deficiency
Hemolytic anemia
Hemolytic anemia due to G-6-PD deficiency
Idiopathic aplastic anemia
Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia
Immune hemolytic anemia
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, poor diet, many diseases, medication reactions, and various problems with the bone marrow, where blood cells made. 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
Shortness of breath

Signs and tests

The doctor will perform a physical examination, and will look for the presence of a pale complexion and rapid heart rate.
Anemia can confirm by a red blood count or hemoglobin level. Other tests depend on the type of anemia.

THIS IS GENERAL INFORMATION ON DISEASE. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR FOR MORE DETAILS AND TREATMENT.

Compiled by –Santosh Ghodinde ,Community Pharmacist, Dhanwantari Medical, Panvel.