What kind of disease is anemia?
Anemia is a condition in which the blood is low in a protein called hemoglobin.
Hemoglobin is found in red blood cells in the blood and is responsible for delivering oxygen throughout the body.
When hemoglobin is deficient, the body is unable to deliver sufficient oxygen, resulting in various disorders.
Although the symptoms of feeling dizzy and sick are sometimes called "anemia",
It does not necessarily correspond to medical anemia, i.e., reduced hemoglobin.
There are many causes of anemia, the best known being iron deficiency anemia due to iron deficiency, but there are many other causes as well.
There are two main types: one is due to the inability to produce red blood cells (hemoglobin) and the other is due to the loss of the red blood cells that are produced.
The former include nutritional deficiencies such as iron and vitamins (especially vitamin B12 and folic acid) and bone marrow disease,
The latter include hemorrhage and hemolysis, in which red blood cells are destroyed.
Even if the symptoms of anemia itself are not so common, it is important to have the anemia checked as soon as possible, as there may be a major disease hiding behind the cause of the anemia.
What are the symptoms of anemia?
Symptoms of anemia vary in severity and speed of progression.
If the anemia is mild and slowly progressing, there are often few symptoms,
It is often found during physical examinations or during the treatment of other diseases.
Conversely, severe anemia or anemia that is progressing rapidly is more likely to produce subjective symptoms,
Mild cases include fatigue, tiredness, and paleness of the face,
As it progresses further, palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and dizziness may also occur.
Also, the cause of anemia may produce characteristic symptoms,
For example, iron deficiency anemia caused by iron deficiency can deform the nails into a spoon shape,
Symptoms such as an irresistible craving for ice may occur.
What tests are performed when anemia is suspected?
The basic test is a blood test.
Hemoglobin levels are measured and anemia is diagnosed at 13 g/dL or less for adult males and 12 g/dL or less for adult females.
If the patient is found to be anemic, the cause of the anemia is subsequently investigated.
This too can often be found in blood tests, such as the size of red blood cells and whether enough red blood cells are being produced,
The patient is examined for iron and vitamin deficiencies, and abnormalities that may indicate hemolysis, if necessary.
For example, if bleeding is found to be the cause, it is necessary to determine where the bleeding is coming from,
We may perform stool tests, gastroscopy, etc., or refer you to an obstetrician/gynecologist for a consultation.
What is the treatment for anemia?
Treatment of anemia depends on the cause.
If it is caused by iron or vitamin deficiency, it is treated by supplementing iron or vitamins with medication.
If bleeding is the cause, it is important to stop the bleeding; if other diseases are the cause, it is necessary to treat those diseases,
Referrals may be made to specialized facilities as needed.
In the case of frequent iron deficiency, though, iron medication should be prescribed and taken,
This is because it takes time for the body's iron stores to fully recover even after the hemoglobin in the blood has been restored,
It is important not to stop the medication immediately.
On the other hand, if large amounts of iron accumulate in the body over a long period of time, the liver and various other organs may be adversely affected,
Periodic blood tests should be performed to check iron levels while treatment is being performed.
What tests and treatments for anemia are available at the Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic?
The clinic specializes in orthopedics, internal medicine, and sports medicine and can provide a variety of tests and treatments.
The following tests and treatments for anemia can be performed at our clinic
Examination: blood test, (and stool and urine tests depending on the cause)
Treatment: Prescription of medication
At our clinic, we provide careful care and a peaceful environment,
We are committed to alleviating your concerns and supporting the improvement of your health.
Please feel free to take a walk and consult with us at our clinic.