| General Info about Anaemia |
It is a condition in the body when supply of iron to bone marrow falls short of that required for the production of red blood cells. It is the commonest cause of Anemia throughout the world.
"There are cases…in which [the blood's] amount of globules falls much below the physiological mean, and diminishing more and more, reaches a proportion so low that we can scarcely comprehend how, with so few globules in the blood, life can still be maintained. This diminution, in different degrees, of the globular element of the blood is the fundamental character of Anemia, a condition which is the opposite of plethora."
Gabriel Andral, 1843
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 What are the causes of Anaemia ? |
 Increased physiological demand for more red blood cells, eg: increased physical activity.
In children, during spurts of growth.
In women during menstruation, pregnancy, parturition and lactation.
Inadequate dietary intake due to poor economic reasons or dietary foods.
Decreased absorption due to disorders in the digestive system.
Peptic ulcer, piles, hiatus hernia, carcinoma of stomach, carcinoma colon, chronic ingestion of a certain type of pain relievers, hookworm infestation.
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| How can we diagnose Anaemia ? |
Blood tests to detect the various components of blood is carried out for proper diagnosis.
Red blood cell count may be normal or decreased.
Peripheral blood smear shows pale small cells.
White blood cell count is usually normal.
Blood iron is reduced or decreased.
Total iron binding capacity of blood shows an increase.
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| How can Anaemia be treated ? |
As there are many factors causing Anemia, the main treatment is for the cause.
Correction of disorder causing Anemia.
Correction of iron deficiency - to restore hemoglobin level.
To replenish iron stores.
Oral iron administration is advised.
Total iron binding capacity of blood shows an increase.
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| More Valuable information about Anaemia... |
Following severe and prolonged iron deficiency, patients sometimes develop difficulty in swallowing, especially solids, in extreme cases also liquids - owing to thin membranous web in the lower part of the throat.
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| Frequently asked questions about Anaemia... |
Which specailist should I see if I have Anemia?
You should consult a general Physician.
What are the different ways to supplement iron?
Eating food which are rich in iron and taking iron tablets supplement the lack of iron in the body. Also, iron can be given intra muscularly. Iron dextran given IM reaches peak concentration in 24-48 hours. |
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| Glossary |
IM - Intra Muscular route
Parturition - Child birth.
Palpitations - Awareness of ones own heart beat.
Angina - Chest pain.
Menorrhagia - Excessive menstrual blood loss.
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