Anemia

Anemia is a condition of having a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells or lower quantity of hemoglobin; hence it diminishes the capacity of the blood to carry oxygen. Patients with anemia may feel tired, fatigue easily, appear pale, have a faster heartbeat, develop palpitations, and become short of breath. Children with chronic anemia are prone to infections and learning problems.

The main causes of anemia are bleeding, hemolysis (excessive destruction of red blood cells), underproduction of red blood cells (as in bone marrow diseases), and underproduction of normal hemoglobin (as in sickle cell anemia and in iron deficiency anemia). Women are more likely than men to have anemia because of menstrual blood loss. In children, anemia most commonly occurs due to insufficient iron in the diet. Anemia may also happen due to gastrointestinal bleeding caused by conditions such as gastritis and hemorrhoids, as well as due to some medications, including such common drugs as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Weakness and general feeling of easily becoming tired
• Pale skin
• A fast or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Dizziness
• Cognitive problems
• Cold hands and feet
• Headache
• Hair loss
• Brittle nails

How we can help:

Make an appointment with us if you’re feeling fatigued for unexplained reasons. Some types of anemia, such as iron deficiency or vitamin B-12 deficiency, are common. Fatigue has many causes besides anemia, so don’t assume that you’re anemic simply because you’re tired.

Low hemoglobin may be a temporary problem remedied by eating more iron-rich foods or by taking a multivitamin containing iron. It may also be a warning sign of bleeding within your body that may be causing you to be deficient in iron. Please see us if you suspect you have anemia because it can be a sign of serious illnesses.

Yermiyahu Clinic is at your service at any time for initial emergency care. Dr. Sunny Sapir, an experienced physician with an expertise in family medicine, will be glad to assist you with professionalism and utmost empathy. After a careful examination of your personal situation, Dr. Sunny will provide you with the most appropriate medical solution.

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