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Definition:
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Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues.
Other types of anemia include:
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Symptoms:
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You may have no symptoms if the anemia is mild. If the problem develops slowly, symptoms that may occur first include:
- Feeling grumpy
- Feeling weak or tired more often than usual, or with exercise
- Headaches
- Problems concentrating or thinking
If the anemia gets worse, symptoms may include:
- Blue color to the whites of the eyes
- Brittle nails
- Light-headedness when you stand up
- Pale skin color
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Shortness of breath
- Sore tongue
Some types of anemia may have other symptoms.
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Signs and tests:
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The doctor will perform a physical examination, and may find:
- Heart murmur
- Low blood pressure, especially when you stand up
- Pale skin
- Rapid heart rate
Some types of anemia may cause other findings on a physical exam.
Blood tests used to diagnose some common types of anemia may include:
Other tests may be done to find medical problems that can cause anemia.
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Treatment:
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Treatment should be directed at the cause of the anemia, and may include:
- Blood transfusions
- Corticosteroids or other medicines that suppress the immune system
- Erythropoietin, a medicine that helps your bone marrow make more blood cells
- Supplements of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, or other vitamins and minerals
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Complications:
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Severe anemia can cause low oxygen levels in vital organs such as the heart, and can lead to a heart attack.
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Calling your health care provider:
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Call your health care provider if you have any symptoms of anemia, or any unusual bleeding.
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References:
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Bunn HF. Approach to the anemias. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 161.
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