How is Anemia Treated?

What are the Symptoms of Anemia?

Each type of anemia may have unique symptoms, but they share several similarities. These symptoms are directly related to the lack of oxygen in your body’s tissues. This includes your brain, which uses large amounts of oxygen to function. 

• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Fast heartbeat
• Headache
• Shortness of breath

Depending on your type of anemia, you may experience other symptoms, such as bruising, weakness, and confusion. 

How is Anemia Treated?

If you receive a diagnosis of anemia, your treatment will depend on the cause of your condition. These are only examples of some existing types of anemia. 

Blood Loss

You may become anemic due to blood loss. This can happen due to an injury, but it can also occur slowly if you have a condition such as bleeding in your digestive system. Treatment involves replacing lost blood and treating the underlying cause. 

Nutritional Deficiencies

The body cannot make fresh red blood cells without the needed ingredients. Iron and B12 deficiencies can cause anemia. You can take supplements of these nutrients or change your diet. You can also receive an iron infusion to raise iron levels quickly. 

Hemolytic Anemia

This type of anemia happens when your bone marrow cannot make new blood cells fast enough to replace those being destroyed. Autoimmune conditions, infections, and genetic disorders can destroy red blood cells. Treatment requires diagnosing the cause.