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May 27, 2004

Anemia

One of my clients came in the other day with a dangerously low blood count, so low, in fact, that it was considered life-threatening. So I thought I'd look up anemia and find the symptoms and causes.

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.

Symptoms include fatigue, chest pains (angina), and shortness of breath.

There are many types of anemia with different causes.

Treatment will be based on the cause of the anemia and can be as simple as taking and iron supplement. In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary. Also the drug erythropoeitin may be administered. If you want to enrich the amount of iron in your diet, there are plenty of iron rich foods. Eat them with a good source of vitamins C for improved absorption.

Complications of anemia could cause lack of oxygen to the brain and vital organs causing irreparable damage.

More links to anemia sites:
Anemia Lifeline
National Anemia Action Council
American Sickle Cell Anemia Association

Posted by linda at May 27, 2004 8:56 AM