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Guide to Iron Deficiency Anaemia

What is Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

Iron deficiency anaemia is a common blood disorder caused when there isn’t enough iron in the body. When there isn’t enough iron which is required to create haemoglobin, the rest of the body can’t get the oxygen it needs. While the condition is vastly prevalent, many people aren’t unaware they have iron deficiency anaemia. Even though they continue to experience symptoms, their condition can go ignored for years.

Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anaemia In India

In India, the prevalence of anaemia in men aged 15 to 49 years is 25%, while in women of the same age group, it is 57%. As per the review conducted by the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD), it was found that iron deficiency anaemia was the main reason behind the health burden for the past decade in India. In women of reproductive age, the reason for iron deficiency anaemia was a loss of blood during menstruation, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders and certain diseases like those pertaining to the intestine.

Here, we look deeper at the symptoms, causes and treatment options for iron deficiency anaemia.

Signs and Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Initially, the symptom of iron deficiency anaemia can be very mild and might even go unnoticed. The best way to conclude this is to run a blood test. The moderate to severe symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia can range from fatigue to irregular heartbeat

Causes for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Iron is a vital component of red blood cells. Without it, blood cannot efficiently transport oxygen to other parts of the body. The body typically repurposes iron from old red blood cells or obtains it freshly from one’s diet.

Iron deficiency anaemia develops when the iron stored in the body runs low. This occurs due to:

Bleeding causes loss of iron. The main reasons for bleeding are:

The body can be incapable of absorbing iron which can have an underlying condition:

Risk Groups for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Everyone is highly susceptible to developing iron-deficiency anaemia. Below are some risk groups for this condition:

Babies inherit their iron stores from their mothers, who carried them in their wombs for nine months, nurturing them with low nutrition. If the mother is iron deficient, the child is likely to become one, too, unless they are made to drink iron-fortified formula along with breastmilk.

Young children who only drink cow’s milk may not get sufficient quantities of iron. The child’s diet should be supplemented with fortified cow milk formula.

Growth spurts are often the reason why iron reserves end up getting exhausted quickly.

Older people do not get as much iron as needed because their meal portions tend to reduce with age.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

According to healthcare providers and experts, the most effective way to diagnose iron deficiency anaemia is through blood tests and bone marrow biopsy (in some cases). The standard blood test for screening is a complete blood count (CBC). Additional tests to find out the underlying causes as prescribed by your doctor may be:

Intravenous (IV iron) and blood transfusion are some of the other treatment options if severe iron deficiency anaemia is identified in a patient. 

Foods for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

One of the easiest ways to correct iron deficiency anaemia on a personal level is to change your diet plan. You should chart out a meal plan that focuses more on iron-rich foods. These include but are not limited to the following:

Fruits & VegetablesNuts & SeedsMeat & FishBeans & Pulses
Citrus fruitsPistachiosLiverChickpea
BroccoliPine nutsTunaPinto beans
Red & yellow peppersSunflower seedsSalmonBlack beans
SpinachHemp seedsSardinesPeas
WatermelonCashewsChickenKidney beans
PomegranatePumpkin seedsRed meatSoybeans
RaisinsSquash seedsEgg 
Dried apricots   

Conclusion

Iron deficiency anaemia can become serious if it is left unaddressed for a long time. It can end up increasing your risk of developing complications that affect the lungs or heart. Further, it can cause headaches, fatigue, restless leg syndrome, pregnancy complications and developmental delays in children. The ideal way of managing iron deficiency anaemia is to follow the treatment prescribed while also consuming iron micro supplements and a diet rich in iron along with vitamin C-enriched foods that help in proper iron absorption in the body.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

Sources:

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/anemia/iron-deficiency-anemia

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1795421

https://www.nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/child-health/guidelines/Control-of-Iron-Deficiency-Anaemia.pdf

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency

4

Anaemia in Children: Signs, Causes and Treatment

What is Anaemia in children?

Anaemia is a common condition characterised by the inability of your body to produce or maintain sufficient or normal red blood cells. The prevalence of anaemia in India is around 52%. It has also been found that for every ten children aged 6-59 months, seven are anaemic. Further, out of this study group, 26% are mildly anaemic, 40% are moderately anaemic and 3% are severely anaemic. The most common type of anaemia affecting children is iron deficiency anaemia.

In this article, we discuss further how prevalent iron deficiency anaemia is in India and how to identify it in children.

What are the Symptoms of Anaemia in Children?

Often, the symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia in children will be similar to that in adults. Despite the similarity, children may face trouble explaining how they are feeling. As an adult, you should be careful about noting whether your child is experiencing all of the symptoms listed below or some of them in combination:

What Causes Anaemia in Children?

The cause of anaemia is directly related to the type. For children, most often the causes are either genetic conditions that affect how red blood cells function or food allergies and feeding struggles.

Anaemia in children can be due to

  1. Inadequate intake of iron-rich food
  2. Inadequate absorption of iron from the gut
  3. Parasitic infestations 
  4. Blood loss due to underlying illness
  5. Autoimmune disorder
  6. Others

Below are the different types of iron deficiency anaemia in children based on microcytic, normocytic and macrocytic patterns of red blood cells. 

Macrocytic Anaemia

Microcytic Anaemia

Normocytic Anaemia

How Much Iron is Needed by Children?

Iron is an essential nutrient for growth and development in children. Iron is vital because it helps to carry oxygen from the lungs to the other parts of the body. It is responsible for helping the muscles store and utilise this oxygen whenever there is a need. Iron is also necessary for physical growth, neurological development, cellular functioning and the synthesis of some hormones. So, when your child’s daily diet lacks a good amount of iron-fortified or iron-rich food sources, they are at a high risk of developing iron deficiency anaemia.

Although children are born with iron stores in their bodies, they typically need a stable amount of additional iron throughout their growth and development stages. Below is a table illustrating the approximate iron needs of your child.

Age GroupRecommended Amount of Iron a Day
7-12 months11 mg
1-3 years7 mg
4-8 years10 mg
9-13 years8 mg
14-18 years, girls15 mg
14-18 years, boys11 mg

Diagnosis and Treatment for Anaemia in Children

Diagnosing anaemia in children can be a bit challenging due to the fact that symptoms are often very mild or it is shared with a few other conditions. As the first step, the doctor will evaluate the child’s overall health (including diet, medications and development) as well the medical history of the parents.

The doctor will advise the parents to get a complete blood count (CBC) test to assess the haemoglobin levels. This is the most standard blood test that gives an overall idea about the count of all blood cell types from the sample. In case of low haemoglobin levels, your doctor will advise further lab tests to diagnose the type of anaemia and treat it accordingly.

Anaemia in children is treated based on the below three factors:

The doctor will try to treat your child with iron supplements or with a dietary recommendation. The doctor may suggest increasing the number of iron-rich foods or iron-fortified foods in the child’s diet. This includes foods like

Conclusion

Iron deficiency anaemia is a common form of anaemia in children and usually it can be corrected through iron supplements and a balanced healthy diet. In case of worm infestations or underlying conditions, the cause needs to be addressed. Typically, anaemia is a short-term condition in children, but in other cases, it may need ongoing medical treatment in order to maintain the blood count level. Strictly adhere to the treatment prescribed by your haematologist and maintain regular follow-up sessions. 

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

Sources:

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/

https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/3201617.pdf

https://www.who.int/health-topics/anaemia#tab=tab_1

Impact of Anaemia on Pregnancy: Important Tips for Expecting Mothers

What is Anaemia?

Anaemia is a condition characterised by a low or abnormal number of red blood cells. In a complete blood count test, anaemia can be indicated by low RBC count t or low haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a very important protein found in red blood cells that carry oxygen and deliver it to various parts of the body. 

Iron-deficiency anaemia is the most commonly occurring anaemia in women. This happens when the body doesn’t have sufficient iron needed to create haemoglobin. When there is insufficient iron in the blood, the rest of the body doesn’t get the required oxygen it needs. According to a survey carried out by the Global Burden of Disease (GBD), iron deficiency anaemia continues to be a pressing health burden in India for the past decade. Iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy affects the health of the mother as well as that of the foetus. 

Risk Factors for Iron Deficiency Anaemia During Pregnancy

The World Nutrition Assessment 2016 found that India had the highest incidence of iron deficiency anaemia. Out of 180 nations of women with anaemia, India ranked 170th. In women of reproductive age group (15-49 years), the standard reason for iron deficiency anaemia was a loss of iron through blood during menstrual cycles or during pregnancy, inadequate iron intake and frequent infections. 

At the time of pregnancy particularly, the blood volume in the body increases. The demand for iron stores also increases in order to be able to supply oxygen to the baby. When there is a demand and supply gap, the possibility of developing iron deficiency anaemia arises. As a result, mothers have a chance of suffering from preeclampsia (high blood pressure disorder), perinatal infection and bleeding. 

Listed below are some risk factors that put an expecting mother at high risk of getting this condition.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anaemia During Pregnancy

A major reason why sometimes iron deficiency anaemia gets ignored at the time of pregnancy is because the symptoms are similar to that of general pregnancy. However, if you are concerned about the degree of weakness that you are feeling on a daily basis despite getting adequate rest, you should speak to your healthcare provider.

 Some symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia are:

Impact of Iron Deficiency Anaemia on the Baby

Iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy is very risky for the baby because it increases the danger of not only premature birth but also infant death after or before birth. Some other complications of iron deficiency anaemia that the baby can develop are below:

Treatment for Iron Deficiency Anaemia During Pregnancy

If you are found to be anaemic during your pregnancy due to iron deficiency, you will be prescribed by your doctor to take folic acid tablets or iron supplements in addition to prenatal vitamins. You will also be asked to undergo regular blood tests in order to track if the haemoglobin levels are improving.

The doctor will also suggest that the expecting mother consume more iron and protein-rich food during their pregnancy, such as paneer, lentils, spinach, fresh fruits, eggs, chicken, liver, and dairy products.

Your obstetrician may also refer you to a haemotologist who specialises in blood disorders in order to get more specialised attention with respect to improving your health.

Management of Iron Deficiency Anaemia During Pregnancy: Tips for Expecting Mothers

In order to manage anaemia from the very beginning, you should be careful about meeting the body’s need for iron through dietary means. Consuming well-balanced home cooked-food should be your primary goal. You should aim for a minimum of three servings of iron-rich meals such as:

You should also consume a good quantity of vitamin C daily in order to ensure proper iron absorption. Such foods must include citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers, and kiwis. Another tip that expecting mothers should follow is to consume an iron-rich meal along with a plate of tomato salad or other citrus fruit high in vitamin C in one go. This ensures that the iron contained in food is adequately absorbed by the body. 

Besides this, you should speak to your healthcare provider about taking iron supplements and prenatal vitamins in the right dosage to prevent supplement toxicity.

If you have plans to become a mother in the near future or you are already pregnant, you should be fully aware of the importance of folic acid, iron and vitamin B12 for the proper functioning of the body. You must ideally get a full body check-up done, including a complete blood count test, prior to conceiving or as soon as possible. Pay attention to any nutritional gap that you may have. 

Speak to your healthcare provider about taking micro supplements such as prenatal vitamin or iron tablets and follow a well-balanced diet comprising protein, iron and vitamin C. Additionally, as a good samaritan, you can pass on the knowledge of iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy to your loved ones so that they can also fight this condition and enjoy a healthy pregnancy. 

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

Sources:

https://www.nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/child-health/guidelines/Control-of-Iron-Deficiency-Anaemia.pdf

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1795421

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/anemia-during-pregnancy/art-20114455#:~:text=During%20pregnancy%2C%20you%20need%2027,vegetables%2C%20dried%20beans%20and%20peas.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4375689/

1

Guide to Iron Deficiency Anaemia

What is Iron Deficiency Anaemia?

Iron deficiency, also known as anaemia, is a common blood disorder caused when there isn’t enough iron in the blood. When there isn’t enough iron which is required to create haemoglobin, the rest of the body can’t get the oxygen it needs. While the condition is vastly prevalent, many people aren’t unaware they have iron deficiency anaemia. Even though they continue to experience symptoms, their condition can go ignored for years.

In India, the prevalence of anaemia in men aged 15 to 49 years is 25%, while in women of the same age group, it is 57%. As per the review conducted by the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD), it was found that iron deficiency anaemia was the main reason behind the health burden for the past decade in India. In women of reproductive age, the reason for iron deficiency anaemia was a loss of blood during menstruation, nutritional deficiencies, autoimmune disorders and certain diseases like those pertaining to the intestine.

Here, we look deeper at the symptoms, causes and treatment options for iron deficiency anaemia.

Signs and Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Initially, the symptom of iron deficiency anaemia can be very mild and might even go unnoticed. The best way to conclude this is to run a blood test. The moderate to severe symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia can range from fatigue to irregular heartbeat

·       Weakness

·       Paleness of skin

·       Dizziness

·       Shortness of breath

·       Cravings to consume items with zero nutritional value, such as ice, clay or carbs

·       Soreness or swelling of the tongue

·       Cold hands and feet

·       Irregular or rapid heartbeat

·       Crawling or tingling feeling in the legs

Causes for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Iron is a vital component of red blood cells. Without it, blood cannot efficiently transport oxygen to other parts of the body. The body typically repurposes iron from old red blood cells or obtains it freshly from one’s diet.

Iron deficiency anaemia develops when the iron stored in the body runs low. This occurs due to:

Bleeding causes loss of iron. The main reasons for bleeding are:

The body can be incapable of absorbing iron which can have an underlying condition:

Risk Groups for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Everyone is highly susceptible to developing iron-deficiency anaemia. Below are some risk groups for this condition:

Babies inherit their iron stores from their mothers, who carried them in their wombs for nine months, nurturing them with low nutrition. If the mother is iron deficient, the child is likely to become one, too, unless they are made to drink iron-fortified formula along with breastmilk.

Young children who only drink cow’s milk may not get sufficient quantities of iron. The child’s diet should be supplemented with fortified cow milk formula.

Growth spurts are often the reason why iron reserves end up getting exhausted quickly.

Older people do not get as much iron as needed because their meal portions tend to reduce with age.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

According to healthcare providers and experts, the most effective way to diagnose iron deficiency anaemia is through blood tests. The standard blood test for screening is a complete blood count (CBC). Additional tests to find out the underlying causes as prescribed by your doctor may be:

Intravenous (IV iron) and blood transfusion are some of the other treatment options if severe iron deficiency anaemia is identified in a patient. 

Foods for Iron Deficiency Anaemia

One of the easiest ways to correct iron deficiency anaemia on a personal level is to change your diet plan. You should chart out a meal plan that focuses more on iron-rich foods. These include but are not limited to the following:

Fruits & VegetablesNuts & SeedsMeat & FishBeans & Pulses
Citrus fruitsPistachiosLiverChickpea
BroccoliPine nutsTunaPinto beans
Red & yellow peppersSunflower seedsSalmonBlack beans
SpinachHemp seedsSardinesPeas
WatermelonCashewsChickenKidney beans
PomegranatePumpkin seedsRed meatSoybeans
RaisinsSquash seedsEgg 
Dried apricots   

Conclusion

Iron deficiency anaemia can become serious if it is left unaddressed for a long time. It can end up increasing your risk of developing complications that affect the lungs or heart. Further, it can cause headaches, fatigue, restless leg syndrome, pregnancy complications and developmental delays in children. The ideal way of managing iron deficiency anaemia is to follow the treatment prescribed while also consuming iron micro supplements and a diet rich in iron along with vitamin C-enriched foods that help in proper iron absorption in the body.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

2

Understanding Anaemia in Women: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Anaemia? 

Anaemia is a medical condition wherein a person’s red blood cells (RBCs) and oxygen-carrying ability falls short of meeting the body’s physiological needs. The RBCs’ function is to deliver oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and also carry carbon dioxide to the lungs from the tissues. This is achieved with the help of haemoglobin (Hb), which is a tetramer (a structure with four subunits) protein made from haem and globin. 

Anaemia can occur if there are too few red blood cells, if there are abnormal RBCs or if the haemoglobin level of the RBCs is below the normal range. Anaemia can range from mild to moderate to severe and can be a temporary or permanent (chronic) issue. The World Health Organisation has stated that the estimated global anaemia prevalence is around 56%

Anaemia in Women 

Women, especially, are highly susceptible to developing anaemia because of nutritional deficiencies, poor absorption and other chronic conditions.- They also lose blood during menstruation every month. Worldwide, the most common type of anaemia affecting women is iron deficiency anaemia. According to a report conducted by the National Family Health Survey, it was found that anaemia was prevalent in about 57% of women aged between 15-49 years in India. 

To understand what causes anaemia in women and how to identify and manage it, let us keep reading below. 

Symptoms of Anaemia in Women

While it is common to feel tired after a long day, women who are anaemic usually feel extremely fatigued post shorter periods of exertion. This happens because there is enough blood carrying oxygen to different parts of the body. As your condition aggravates, you are likely to experience other symptoms, such as breathlessness and pale skin. So, some possible signs of anaemia that you need to look out for are:

If the cause of anaemia is iron deficiency, some other symptoms are:

What are the Causes of Anaemia?

Not all forms of anaemia in women can be attributed to the same cause. Therefore, the different reasons include:

The body’s iron needs are fulfilled from dietary sources or through supplements. Iron deficiency can occur due to –

  1. Insufficient intake of dietary iron
  2. Poor absorption of iron from the digestive system

Ongoing inflammation caused by diseases such as autoimmune disorders, HIV/AIDS, kidney disorder, rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease suppresses the body from making sufficient red blood cells in women. This condition is also known as anaemia of chronic disease. 

A diet not rich in vitamin B-12 and folate aside from iron keeps the body from making healthy red blood cells. 

This is caused due to disorders of bone marrow. This type of anaemia is often associated with a reduced count of other blood cells like WBCs and platelets. , 

Disorders such as myelofibrosis and leukaemia affect how the bone marrow makes blood. There can be a reduction of healthy blood cells or an overproduction of abnormal blood cells.

This is a serious and inherited condition where the red blood cells attain an unusual crescent shape like that of a sickle. The irregular blood cells die sooner than usual and this sets into motion continuous red blood cell insufficiency. The prevalence rate for sickle cell anaemia is particularly high amongst tribal women in India. 

This is caused when the red blood cells are destroyed faster than the rate at which they can be replaced by the bone marrow in women. 

What are Some Complications Associated with Severe Anaemia in Women?

Severe and often unaddressed iron deficiency anaemia in women causes the following health problems:

Treatment for Anaemia 

Treatment for anaemia first begins with an accurate diagnosis. Once your condition is identified, the doctor will prescribe medications and suggest lifestyle changes, mainly in the form of dietary measures to stabilise your health. 

Diagnosis:

This will involve undergoing a string of blood tests which includes a complete blood count (CBC). To evaluate if an individual is anaemic due to iron deficiency, additional tests may also be ordered. These are: 

In the event that iron deficiency anaemia is diagnosed by the healthcare provider, they will suggest some additional testing which can be as follows:

Medication:

Prescribed medications include iron and other vitamin supplements. 

In severe cases, doctors may prescribe medications to promote red blood cell production, such as immunosuppressants or erythropoietin injections. If the haemoglobin level is abnormally low, then the doctor may also suggest blood transfusions to treat anaemia. 

Dietary Measures 

To treat iron deficiency anaemia in women, the doctor can suggest the following dietary measures:

Importance of Identifying and Managing Anaemia in Women 

Conclusion:

Untreated anaemia can adversely affect a woman’s productivity and quality of life. Proper awareness with respect to symptoms coupled with regular visits to the doctor (haematologist) with a complete blood count profile is a necessity. Additionally, you must ensure to strictly adhere to a healthy diet rich in protein, iron and vitamin C. Keep a tab on your haemoglobin levels and iron profiles if you have been diagnosed with any type of anaemia. 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

1

7 Things You Need to Avoid in Anaemia!

Anaemia is a condition in which your body does not produce enough red blood cells. It occurs due to the destruction of red blood cells or your body’s inability to create enough healthy red blood cells.

It’s a serious global public health problem that occurs at any stage of life. In fact, it’s one of the most common nutritional deficiencies. Anaemia can be a temporary or long-term condition and can range from mild to severe. It can also be a sign of a serious illness and must not be ignored. But did you know it is treatable and preventable?

Consult a doctor and follow the treatment advised to keep your haemoglobin and other CBC parameters in check.

Signs and Symptoms of Anaemia

There are a lot of signs and symptoms that point towards a possible cause of anaemia. Keep a lookout for the following:

Non-iron deficiency Anaemia (Types and Causes)

There are many cases of anaemia that are brought about not because of an iron deficiency. These include:

Patients suffer from this type of anaemia when they lack something called an intrinsic factor that helps absorb Vitamin B12. Without the vitamin, healthy red blood cells cannot be produced. If the body lacks vitamin B9, the person can get something called folic acid deficiency anaemia, but more often than not, any anaemia related to any vitamin B deficiency is clubbed with this.

This type may be a genetic or an acquired condition wherein your body produces deformed red blood cells, which die off very quickly.

This genetic form of anaemia happens as the shape of the RBCs is faulty. They are sickle-shaped, which clogs the blood vessels. This results in damage, and the haemoglobin may not work properly as a result.

It is a rare blood disease that can be genetic or acquired. The bone marrow does not create enough red blood cells, and it is diagnosed within the first year of 90% of people who are suffering from it.

This is caused due to damaged bone marrow which cannot produce enough amount of red blood cells. Another name for it is bone marrow aplasia.

Even here, anaemia is caused due to lack of enough red blood cells. Moreover, people suffering from it develop physical conditions like abnormal bone structure and skin colour.

Also known as Cooley’s anaemia, this disease refers to beta-thalassemia major. These are inherited conditions in which the body cannot create enough haemoglobin. Additionally, the red blood cells produced have a very short lifespan.

If you are suffering from anaemia, you should take care to avoid the following foods and must follow a specific diet plan to treat this disease quickly. In short, a healthy diet is your first line of defence.

The following checklist can undoubtedly be of great help for anaemic patients to prevent it from getting worse.

1. Avoid Tannins 2 hours before and after meals

Tannins are plant-based, naturally occurring substances. The tea and coffee you drink also contain tannins. They are also present in fruit juices, berries, pomegranates, nuts, legumes, herbs, and spices.

Iron absorption occurs predominantly in the duodenum and upper jejunum of the small intestine. These substances then bind iron molecules and interfere with iron absorption in the body. Due to this interference, iron is not completely absorbed from your body.

2. Say No to Gluten

Food items rich in gluten must be avoided in people with gluten intolerance as it can worsen Anaemia. Gluten may damage the intestinal wall and prevent iron and folic acid absorption, which are required to produce red blood cells.

In celiac disease (a disease in which the small intestine is damaged as the patients are allergic to gluten), folate and iron are not entirely absorbed in the body. As a result, this malabsorption can lead to anaemia. However, gluten must only be avoided if you are allergic to it and not otherwise.

3. Avoid Phytates

Phytates, also termed phytic acid is present in legumes, whole grains, nuts, and brown rice. The phytic acid binds with the iron present in the digestive tract and inhibits its absorption. Hence, Anemic patients must avoid foods containing phytates.

4. Beware of Calcium-Containing Foods

The mineral hinders iron absorption, and therefore consuming calcium-containing food products in combination with other iron-rich foods can affect how much iron is being absorbed by your body. Dairy foods like milk, yoghurt and cheese should be spaced at definite intervals if you are taking iron supplements. Therefore, it is advisable to take calcium-containing foods at different time slots.

Also, Read Foods That Are Good For Anaemia

5. Polyphenols

These are significant inhibitors of iron absorption. Various foods like cocoa, coffee, apples, spices, walnuts, etc. contain polyphenols or phenolic compounds; hence, they should be taken at a gap of 2-3 hours from iron supplements. 

6. Avoid Alcohol Consumption

Not only anaemia but alcohol can also cause or worsen several other health problems and must be avoided. Drinking too much alcohol can result in anaemia, it can impact red blood cell production and maturation. This causes abnormality or dysfunction of the cells. Alcohol may also affect how nutrients are absorbed from food and lead to iron and folic acid deficiencies, which are responsible for the proper formation of haemoglobin. 

7.  Certain Medications

In some cases, a drug may sometimes mistake your own red blood cells for foreign substances. The body responds quickly by making antibodies that attack the red blood cells and causes them to break down too early. Always consult with your doctor before taking any medications.

Risk factors

Certain factors can increase the risk of anaemia:

Read More: 9 Anaemia Symptoms & Signs To Watch Out For

Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation

References

https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/nutritional/iron-deficiency-anaemia#complications-of-iron-deficiency-anaemia

https://www.nhm.gov.in/images/pdf/programmes/child-health/guidelines/Control-of-Iron-Deficiency-Anaemia.pdf

4

The Basic Things You Should Know About Anaemia!

Anaemia is a common condition which is characterised by reduced quality or quantity of healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells contain haemoglobin which is responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Reduced haemoglobin percentage or lesser number of red blood cells may lead to an inadequate supply of oxygen to different parts of the body. Anaemia widely affects children, women, and men at any stage of life.

The prevalence of anaemia among six groups, as per the National Family Health Survey 5 (2019-21), is 25.0 percent in men (15-49 years) and 57.0 percent in women (15-49 years). 31.1 percent in adolescent boys (15-19 yrs), 59.1 percent in adolescent girls,52.2 percent in pregnant women (15-49 years) and 67.1 percent in children (6-59 months). 

What is anaemia?

Anaemia is a condition in which there is a  lack of healthy red blood cells that carries oxygen to all body tissues, and a low red blood cell count shows a lower level of oxygen in your blood than normal levels. It can be mild to severe.  

The severity of anaemia depends on the level of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein present in red blood cells that transport oxygen from the lungs to the other parts of the body. Haemoglobin formation requires iron, so most of the people who have anaemia have a shortage of iron.

There are various types of anaemia depending upon the underlying cause.

What are the causes of anaemia?

Many conditions lead to anaemia, including nutritional deficiency to major underlying causes. Common causes of anaemia are as follows –

What are the types of anaemia?

1: Iron-deficiency anaemia – It is one of the common types of anaemia that often affects more women than men and is more common during pregnancy. In this anaemia, your body does not have enough iron to form haemoglobin that helps to carry oxygen through your blood to all parts of your body. Symptoms of iron-deficiency anaemia can be –  

2: Aplastic anaemia – In this anaemia, your body cannot produce enough red blood cells because of bone marrow-related disorders.

3: Hemolytic anaemia – This anaemia occurs when your body itself damages your red blood cells.

4: Pernicious anaemia – Because of the deficiency of vitamin B12, pernicious anaemia occurs.    

5: Sickle-cell anaemia – This is a genetic disorder that affects your red blood cells.

What are the symptoms of anaemia?

If you have mild anaemia, you may not have many symptoms. The sign and symptoms depend on the cause and level of haemoglobin in the body. Signs and symptoms of anaemia might include:

Anaemia treatment depends on its underlying cause. There are many treatment options based on the type and severity of anaemia.

In iron or vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia, you need to eat healthy foods and sometimes need nutritional supplements.

In some other cases, if anaemia is severe and caused because of some pathology, then the doctors may prescribe some medications and injections to treat anaemia, like Erythropoietin injections, hormonal medicines, or some antibiotics.

Other forms of anaemia may require intense treatment, like surgery to stop blood loss or blood transfusion.

What should be your diet if you are anaemic?  

If you are experiencing any symptoms of anaemia, consult your doctor (preferably a haematologist), but there are things which you can do on your own, mainly to improve your diet. The best diet plan for anaemia includes food rich in iron and other vitamins. Here we enlisted some essential foods which can help you deal with anaemia –

1: Green leafy vegetables: Green, dark vegetables are the best source of iron. They may include –

Some of them, Swiss chard or collard greens, are also rich in folate and can be useful in folate deficiency anaemia. You can have vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges while eating these green vegetables, as vitamin C may increase the absorption of iron.

2: Nuts and seeds

Many nuts and seeds are nutritious dense foods that contain a tremendous amount of iron. You can eat them raw or roasted as they have the same amount of iron. You can eat them as a snack or sprinkle them on a salad. Nuts and seeds may include –

3: Lean meat and poultry foods 

Lean meat and chicken breast contain a high amount of iron, almost 22% of your recommended dose. To enhance iron absorption, pair it with vitamin C-rich vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, and red peppers.

4: Seafood 

Seafood such as oysters is one of the best ways to supplement your diet if you are anaemic. Most of the fish contain iron, especially shellfish such as oysters, clams, and crabs. Other types of fish –

5: Beans 

Beans are the most inexpensive and best source of iron for vegetarians. Some iron-rich beans are as follows –

Anaemia can be a mild to severe form of blood disorder. It should not be ignored. A doctor can help diagnose and manage the condition well depending upon the types of anaemia you are suffering from.  

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

Ref

  1. https://www.who.int/health-topics/anaemia#tab=tab_1
  2. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1795421
  3. https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/anemia/iron-deficiency
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Anaemia – 9 Signs And Symptoms To Be Aware Of!

Symptoms of anaemia are very telling, yet one of the most common issues that doctors face is anaemia in their patients. Despite being well-off, many people do not have optimum haemoglobin levels in their blood. A person is considered anaemic when because of a low level of iron in the blood the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. Haemoglobin is a protein that helps in the formation of these cells which are needed to carry oxygen around the body. With insufficient oxygen, the muscles and tissues cannot work inefficiently.

There are many causes of anaemia. Poor diet, wrong lifestyle choices, fad diets, pregnancy or internal bleeding could all lead to this condition. Anaemia affects the overall quality of life. One can recognize it through various signs and symptoms that your body exhibits.

Here’s the list of top symptoms of Anaemia to look out for:

1. Fatigue

The unusual amount of tiredness in day to day life is one of the most prominent symptoms of Anaemia. General debility, crankiness, and poor concentration are all because of low iron levels. To improve your iron intake, couple your iron-rich diet with a dose of Vitamin C to aid better absorption.

2. Skin Pallor

Pale skin and eyelids can be explained due to Anaemia. Due to low amounts of red blood cells, the skin loses its rosy glow. Lower eyelids are one of the first organs that the doctors check when they suspect Anaemia.

Iron deficiency anemia is very common among Indians , due to dietary deficiency mainly among vegetarians. Eating lots of green leafy vegetables, red vegetables and cooking food in iron kitchenware will help combat this silent public health problem.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

3. Shortness of Breath

People who suffer from Anaemia constantly feel breathless even with a little bit of activity. Insufficient oxygen to the muscles makes them work harder. Even the heart which is a muscle must pump harder to make the oxygen reach the other tissues and muscles.

4. Brittle Nails

People who suffer from Anaemia have chipped nails. In the more severe cases, anaemic have spoon-shaped nails where the edges rise above and the middle of the nail dips. It is imperative that one avoid such a dangerous condition. To avoid brittle nails, one must each leafy green vegetable, add meat and seafood to their diet.

Also Read: 8 Different Types of Foods to Fight Anaemia

5. Headaches

Frequent headaches and spells of dizziness are another sign of anaemia. Due to low supply of oxygen to the brain, the vessels swell up and increase pressure in the brain and cause headaches.

6. Poor Appetite

Anaemics, especially children, and infants suffer from poor appetite. Instead, they have cravings for unusual things like chalk, ice or dirt.

If you lose iron faster than you can replace it through your diet, you may become anemic. Many donors have adequate iron levels to donate blood safely, but frequent blood donors should be aware that blood donation may lead to low iron levels or anemia.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

7. Heart Palpitations

An irregular heartbeat is another prominent symptom of a prolonged case of Anaemia. The heart doesn’t get its required amount of oxygen and that makes it beat irregularly. It can make the patient feel uncomfortable.

8. Damaged Hair and Dry Skin

When the body lacks iron for its basic needs, it diverts the allotted amount for its regular functioning. It is but obvious that the skin and hair will be the first to suffer. Lusterless, dry hair accompanied by hair loss is a precursor to low iron levels.

9. Sore Mouth and Tongue

An inflamed, swollen tongue that is pale and smooth is another indication of iron-deficiency anaemia. The pallor of the tongue is due to the low supply of red blood cells.

Also Read: Blackstrap Molasses: Uncovering Its Health Benefits and Uses

Who is most likely to develop anaemia?

Anyone can develop anaemia, although these are the higher risk groups:

Read More: 7  Home Remedies for Anaemia

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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4 Common Causes of Iron Deficiency Anaemia That You Must Know!

Iron is an essential nutrient for growth and efficient bodily functions. The lack of iron in the body is called as anaemia or iron-deficiency anaemia. The body needs it to make a protein called haemoglobin. Low haemoglobin levels hamper the red blood cells from carrying oxygen to the body organs. If not checked in time the situation could deteriorate and stop the organs from functioning properly.

A healthy diet ensures that the body makes up for its iron needs. But if you have been feeling fatigued all the time, suffering from a poor appetite, and feeling a general sense of incapacity, you might need to get a blood test done. Women of child-bearing age, children and old people must be especially careful about their haemoglobin levels.

Causes of Iron Deficiency Anaemia

However, there are cases of Iron-Deficiency anaemia caused which are not linked to gender, lifestyle or even diet. They are as follows:

1. A Low- Iron Diet

If you have been substituting your full meals with a soda and a sandwich, you need to sit up and read this. Fast food, apart from harming your waistline is hugely deficient in iron. A diet that doesn’t incorporate leafy greens, meats, eggs, fruits, and vegetables could be sending you an anaemic downward spiral. A regular supply of the above items in your food habits will keep your iron levels above the average and ensure high haemoglobin in the blood.

2. Are You Absorbing the Iron in Your Diet?

You might be supplying your body with all the iron-rich food, but if it is not absorbing it efficiently, it is a lost cause. Ensure that you compliment your iron-rich diet with some dose of Vitamin C in the form of a dash of lemon juice, an orange or some other citrus. Celiac disease could also cause iron-deficiency because it affects the intestine which is the site of iron absorption. Many people lose parts of their small intestine after facing gastrointestinal issues like colon cancer. They are bound to suffer from iron-deficiency anaemia.

Another important thing in children is that they have developmental delay and deficits in intelligence due to iron deficiency. It can easily be treated by Iron supplements.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

3. Blood Loss

Heavy periods can lead to severe iron-deficiency anaemia in women because of high blood loss. Women must ensure that they eat and stay healthy to make up for the monthly blood loss. Menstruation affects all women, not just those who are in the fertility window. Young girls in their attempt to have size zero figures cause irreparable damage to their systems by eating only certain kinds of food and that too in low quantities. Parent must get their daughters checked regularly for their haemoglobin levels. If you suspect your periods are heavier than usual, consult your gynaecologist. Apart from, peptic ulcer and colon cancer can also lead to iron-deficiency anaemia.

Iron is a mineral which is commonly implicated in the growth and development in the body and most importantly to make hemoglobin which is important to carry oxygen to the lungs and back. Thus, if you encounter any symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, it is critical to visit a physician and get yourself treated.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

4. Pregnancy

Many times, iron-deficiency anaemia can be because of pregnancy. The growing baby puts excessive demands on the mother’s biological system. Also, the pregnant woman’s blood volume increases to supply nutrients to the baby. Expectant mothers must supplement their diets with an iron capsule apart from eating iron-rich foods and iron-fortified cereal.

Also Read: Blackstrap Molasses: Uncovering Its Health Benefits and Uses

How To Tell If You Have Anaemia?

Anaemia symptoms and signs are easy to spot when they become more severe, but initially, you may not notice any changes. For those who are at a higher risk (pregnant women, elderly, those who have suffered blood loss) it is vital to be proactive and get your blood tested regularly. For others, you can watch for these anaemia symptoms and get tested if you notice one or more of them:  

Also Read: How to Increase Iron Levels Quickly: Effective Strategies Backed by Research

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Anaemia – How Pomegranates Can Help?

According to a report, more than half of Indian women and about 3/4th of Indian children suffer from Anaemia. What is startling in the data available is not how widespread the disease is but that it has nothing to do with one’s socioeconomic status and is found across all sections of society. Advanced countries such as the US also have a high percentage of the anaemic population.

What is Anaemia?

Anaemia is a lack of haemoglobin in your blood. Haemoglobin carries oxygen to all parts of the body and is vital for healthy functioning. Anaemia is also characterised by an unhealthy count of Red Blood Cells (RBCs). The threshold after which a person (children, adults, and pregnant women) are considered anaemic are –

 Anaemia
PopulationNon-anaemicMildModerateSevere
Children 6 to 59 months old110 or above100-109 70-99Below 70
Children 5 to 11 years old115 or above110-11480-109Below 80
Children 12 to 14 years old120 or above110-11980-109Below 80
Women older than 15 years120 or above110-11980-109Below 80
Pregnant women110 or above100-10970-99Below 70
Men older than 15 years130 or above110-12980-109Below 80

The following three are the leading causes of Anaemia-

Loss of blood: Chronic loss of blood due to internal or external injury and bleeding, childbirth, certain illnesses, menstruation, etc. leads to Anaemia.

Increased demand for iron: The body requires more iron during pregnancy, growth spurts in childhood and adolescence.

Decreased production of haemoglobin/RBCs: This occurs in conditions such as after an operation, bone marrow, stem cell problems, diarrhoea or thalassemia.

Anaemia causes fatigue and tiredness, retarded growth in children amongst other issues.

Read More: 9 Anaemia Symptoms & Signs To Watch Out For

Pomegranates, when consumed with iron-rich foods such as liver, green leafy vegetables, lentils and tofu, will help in anaemia, not when consumed alone.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Factors that may increase your chances of developing anaemia

Several factors need to be weighed in while talking about anaemia. Some of these factors cannot be helped while others are very much in our control. To have a better idea, here are some of the factors that can increase your risk of catching anaemia:

At home, you can have pomegranate for anaemia as the fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals. A detailed list of benefits are given below, so read on to find out more!

Also read: Health Benefits and Precautions: Can You Eat Pomegranate Seeds?

How can pomegranates help?

Pomegranate is rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, fibre, potassium, and protein. Although there are many other fruits with higher iron content, pomegranate is highly recommended for anaemia. This is because pomegranate is rich in vitamin C.

Our bodies generally absorb only 3% of the iron consumed. This is because our gut does not readily absorb iron. The high content of vitamin C in pomegranate helps our bodies to absorb the iron present in the fruit as vitamin C, which is integral to iron metabolism. Regular consumption of pomegranate helps to increase haemoglobin levels and fight anaemia.

Avoiding certain foods along with pomegranate is recommended. Chocolates, spinach, tea, coffee, and alcohol have compounds in them that inhibit the absorption of iron. Keep at least a 30-minute gap between these foods and pomegranate consumption for maximal iron absorption.

A small bowl or around 100 gms of this tangy-sweet fruit every day helps to fight iron deficiency by maximizing iron absorption.

Read More: Home Remedies For Anaemia

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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