Anemia

Anemia is a disorder of the blood with a low number of red blood cells in the bloodstream. Red blood cells deliver oxygen from the lungs to the cells in the body. They also pick up carbon dioxide from the body and carry it to the lungs. Anemia may result from a decrease in the production of red blood cells, an increase in the destruction of the red blood cells, or by blood loss.

There are several types of anemia. The most common cause is iron deficiency in menstruating females. Other causes include:

• heredity

• a diet deficiency

• pregnancy

• chronic disease or

• other problems

The early signs and symptoms of anemia may be so mild that they are overlooked. The symptoms get worse as the blood disorder progresses. Watch for signs of weakness, fatigue, and pale skin, gums, and nailbeds. In people of color, look for signs of paleness in the mouth, inside the eyelids, or the palms of the hands.

Symptoms of serious Anemia include:

• shortness of breath

• dizziness

• headache

• problems sleeping

• reduced exercise endurance

• rapid heartbeats

• chest pain and

• heart failure

Any one having these symptoms should check with a healthcare provider. The diagnosis of anemia is made by blood tests. The type of anemia determines the appropriate treatment.

Copyright (c) 1999. HBO & Company (602) 230-7575. All Rights Reserved.