Posts Tagged ‘Red Blood Cell’

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »

A Blood Test for Your Dog

Comments: 0August 9th, 2010 by admin



As a matter of routine during our yearly physicals we have blood work done to check our cholesterol levels, blood sugar and many other things. It is a way to help us track our health, change our ways and be alert to a pending problem. But, how many of us have ever thought about a blood test for our dogs?

A blood test should be part of our dog’s yearly exam, too, as it would open the window to what might be some serious but preventable problems in regard to our dogs health in future years,

A good yearly exam at your veterinarian’s should include not only checking the dog’s temperature, pulse and heart, but examining your pet’s entire body, eyes, ears, nose, teeth, skin, coat and limbs. A complete blood test, which should include a complete blood count and chemistry panel, generally costs about $100. A great deal of money, I agree, however if your dog is over six years of age or older it is money wisely spent.

Why? It is a window into what is happening inside your dog, it is that first line of defense against the large number of life threatening diseases that can attack your dog. You could call it preventative medicine, as it will alert you to serious problems that can possibly be nipped the bud (so to speak) if caught in the very early stages of development. It can actually save you money in the long run.

A dog’s blood does the same job in a dog’s body as ours does in our human bodies. It carries oxygen and nutrients to the body tissues and carries carbon dioxide and wastes away from them. Blood also aids in cell development, helps repair tissue, helps ward off infection and is full of all the necessary ingredients that are so important to a dog’s health. Because blood has all these important jobs to do, it can also tell us when something is going wrong.

A blood test will do a red blood cell count, a white blood cell count and a platelet count, all of which will tell you exactly what is happening inside of that body of your favorite pal. Your dog cannot talk and tell you what is wrong, but a blood test may do the talking for him/her.

A chemistry panel, which is part of a blood test, can tell you what is going on with your dog’s organs. It can evaluate the many substances in the body and tell if there are problems in the kidneys, liver, muscles or glands.

A chemistry panel also measures the total amount of proteins that are in the dog’s body. It can measure the high or low levels of these proteins and the affect they have on your dog’s body to retain water and fight off infections.

As complete blood work helps our doctor understand our bodies, it works the same for our dogs. A veterinarian is able to get a complete picture of your dog’s health and the state of its health, when blood work is part of the yearly examination. It is extremely important as your dog ages that you consider this option.

An ounce of prevention even though it may cost a bit, is worth the price of trying to find a cure for something that could have been prevented or treated

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Endometriosis and Folic Acids

Comments: 0April 10th, 2010 by admin



As we mentioned in previous articles, endometriosis growing somewhere else other than the endometrium also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle by building up tissue, breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. As we know, nutritional supplements play a very important role in treating all kind of diseases. In this article, we will discuss how folic acid helps to treat endometriosis.

I. Definition
Folic acid is one of the members of the vitamin B complex family and is a water soluble vitamin. It also known as vitamin M or folacin. It’s major function is to maintain normal growth and DNA of our body’s cells. It has a chemical structure formula of C19H19N7O6.

II. How folic acids helps in treating endometriosis

1. Anemia
Since folic acid deficiency limits cell division, women with endometriosis with heavy blood flow during menstruation are required to take enough folic acid to help in production of red blood cell. If not, it will lead to megaloblastic anemia.

2. Cell abnormality
Since folic acid is necessary for cell division, deficiency of it will lead to abnormality of some cells in the body. Some endometrial cells may become cancerous or grow into endometrial cells in the abdomen.

3. Protein synthesis
Folic acids interact with other members of the vitamin B complex family in the metabolism of protein. This helps to provide nutrients to the cells in the nervous system. Deficiency of folic acids cause the weakening of the nervous system leading to symptoms of endometriosis.

4. Abnormal cell growth
Folic acid is essential to normal DNA replication, DNA repair, and cell division. Deficiency of folic acid interferes with cell production and cannot repair the damage of cell caused by toxin accumulated in the body leading to abnormal cell growth.

5. Heart disease and stroke
Deficiency of folic acid may help to decrease the circulating level of homocytesteine in the blood. Study shows that high levels of homocysteine in the bloodstream damages coronary arteries or makes it easier for blood clotting, resulting in an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

6. Endometrial cancer
Since we already know that adequate levels of folic acid helps in the synthesis, repair, and functioning of DNA. Deficiency of folic acid may result in damage to DNA that may lead to cancer.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Dogs With Anemia – What Are the Causes, Signs and Treatments?

Comments: 0April 9th, 2010 by admin



Anemia is defined as a low red blood cell count. It can be caused by blood loss, destruction of red blood cells or the inadequate production of the red blood cells. Below I have listed some of the causes of Anemia in dogs, signs, and treatments.

Causes of Anemia

Blood loss – caused as a result of an accident, poisoning, bleeding ulcers, and parasites (such as hookworms or whipworms).

Destruction of red blood cells – caused by parasites, bacterial toxins, poisons and/or immune reactions.

Inadequate production of red blood cells – A reduced or abnormal production of new red blood cells in the bone marrow due to tumors, kidney disease, poisons, or acute infections. The most frequently cause of Anemia is from vitamin and mineral deficiencies that are caused by a poor diet.

Anemia can also be caused by cancer, immune-mediated disease, (which is a disease in the dogs body that attacks its own cells or organs), toxins, genetic defects, inflammatory disease, drug reactions, kidney failure, and also from a generalized chronic long term illness.

Signs of Anemia

Pale gums
Unsettled behavior
Inability to exercise
Increased respiratory rate
Weight loss because of decreased appetite
Episodes of collapse
Evidence of blood loss
Blood in the urine or feces
Yellow discoloration of the skin
Abdominal distension
Vomiting

Treatment of Anemia

The treatment depends on what is causing the Anemia. Your dog will need plenty of rest to help him build up strength while recovering. Your Vet may give your dog some iron supplements and vitamins to help with the anemia and put your dog on a special diet to help speed up his recovery. Follow your Veterinarians instructions for home care. He will explain everything to you on how to take care of your dog and how and when to give your dog his medicine. Your Vet will want you to bring your dog back for check-ups to document his progress. If at any time your dog gets worse, your Veterinarian will want to see him as soon as possible.

Prevention

Any time you suspect a problem with your dogs health, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your Veterinarian. Taking your dog for regular check ups a couple times a year will help your Vet keep track of your dogs health. This way your Vet can compare notes he has made in the past, which can help him spot any problems before they get out of hand.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Ednometriosis and Chemical Cells Salt – Calcarea Phosphorica (Calcium Phosphate, Ca3(Po4))

Comments: 0April 8th, 2010 by admin



As we mentioned in other articles, endometriosis growing somewhere else other than the endometrium also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle, building up tissue by breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. As we know chemical cells salt play a very important role in some culture in treating some kinds of diseases. In this article, we will discuss how Calcarea Phosphorica (calcium phosphate, Ca3(Po4)) helps to treat endometriosis.

I. Definition

Calcarea Phosphorica (calcium phosphate, Ca3(Po4)), also known as phosphate of lime. it plays an important role for body growth and nourishment. It has been used in treating people with anemia in homeopathic medicine.

II. How Calcarea phosphorica (calcium phosphate, Ca3(Po4)) effects endometriosis

1. Anemia
Calcarea phosphorica is a homeopathic medicine that is said to helps increase the production of red blood cell and blood. It is essential for women with heavy blood flow during menstruation for replacing blood loss.

2. Tissue relaxation
It is also said to help support the body tissues, including the abdominal muscle tissue, thereby it helps to relax the muscle tension caused by hormone imbalance resulting in decreasing the menstrual cramps for women with endometriosis.

3. Coagulation
Calcarea phosphorica is also helps to support body tissues by blood clotting that helps to reduce excessive menstrual flow by helping the capillaries and blood vessels in the abdomen to clot.

4. Water retention
It also helps to stimulate waste disposal through lympathic functions thereby decreasing the risk of water retention caused by excessive sodium and deficiency of potassium.

5. Numbness and crawling
Numbness and crawling is caused by irregular function of tissues due to tension of nervous system. By improving the body tissues’ function such as muscle and blood flow, calcarea phosphorica helps to relax and reduce pain for women with endometriosis.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Importance Of Iron Rich Foods

Comments: 0March 8th, 2010 by admin



Iron content in the body plays a major role in the functioning of the body organs. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods act as good sources of iron.

They include liver, chicken, turkey, blackstrap molasses, egg yolks, nuts, spinach, broccoli, asparagus, parley, watercress, brussel sprouts, dried fruits such as dates, apricots, prunes, raisins, seafood such as clams, oysters, tuna, salmon, shrimp, lean red meats, lamb, pork, beef, beans, soy beans, lentils, cereals, breads, rice and pasta. Iron content is essential and it is of great importance especially in babies since they play a major role in the growth cycle. When a baby is born it gets the necessary iron content from its mother’s breast milk.

When the baby is four months old extra iron is required by various organs for proper functioning and it is compensated in the form of iron fortified baby cereal. Iron rich baby foods are available in the market and they could be given to the babies for proper growth stimulation. Many foods are fortified with iron and they could be consumed there by preventing complications due to the lack of iron. Some of the foods are instant oatmeal, pasta, ready-to-eat cereals, grits, iron kids bread and carnation instant breakfast mix.

Iron is responsible for the formation of hemoglobin in the blood. Deficiency of iron leads to anemia that is characterized by the low red blood cell count. Lack of iron content in a human body could be identified by symptoms like fatigue, tachycardia, palpitations and rapid heart rate.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Benefits of Wheatgrass Juice – What, How, and Why!

Comments: 0February 25th, 2010 by admin



Since the late 1960′s, wheatgrass has become frequently discussed in health and medical circles as one of natures greatest gifts. Classified as one of the most abundant superfoods known to man, wheat (and more recently barley) grass has been celebrated for its nutritional content, cleansing and cell regeneration capabilities as well as being in a form that is easily and effortlessly assimilated and digested by our bodies.

The chlorophyll content of wheatgrass alone has been enough to prompt many individuals to consume either fresh or powdered wheatgrass on a daily basis. Being approximately 70% crude chlorophyll, this can have a highly energising effect and a real boost to those looking to alkalise their body.

A discussion on the benefits of wheatgrass juice or powder could be endless – so for the purposes of brevity I have categorised these benefits into four areas. These are the areas that I have found that wheatgrass has benefitted both myself and those around me (family, friends, clients and colleagues).

1. Wheatgrass Builds Blood!

Many health experts including Dr Young (pH Miracle) and Steve Meyerowitz (Nature’s Finest Medicine) have highlighted that the chlorophyll molecule in wheatgrass is almost identical to the haemoglobin molecule in human blood. The only difference is that the central element in chlorophyll is magnesium and in haemoglobin it is iron.

Due to this inherent similarity the human body can easily transform chlorophyll into hemoglobin increasing the red blood cell count as well as the blood’s capacity to deliver oxygen and other nutrients to the body’s cells (Hagiwara, 1985).

Chlorophyll has been shown to build red blood cells quickly, normalise blood pressure by dilating the blood pathways though out the body, destroy poisonous carbon dioxide, release free oxygen and promote higher metabolism and stimulated enzyme systems. On top of all of these benefits, consuming chlorophyll from wheatgrass is a highly effective way to alkalise the blood and energise the body!

2. Wheatgrass Cleanses the Body

Wheatgrass is an extremely beneficial food in terms of both its cleansing capabilities. The contents of wheatgrass juice and powder (green drink) are reported to be within the region of approximately 100 separate elements with scientists dubbing it a ‘complete food’. According to ‘The Wheatgrass Book’ (Wigmore, 1985), just 140g of fresh wheatgrass offers the same nutritional value as over 3kg’s of fress green vegetables!

Wheatgrass is a great source of vitamins B, C, E and carotene which are hugely effective in destroying and eliminating free radicals and cleansing the body. Wheatgrass is also highly regarded for its ability to cleanse the blood, organs and gastrointestinal tract.

Because it is also high in saponin, wheatgrass offers excellent support to the lymphatic system, helping to carry away hundreds and thousands of toxins from the cells of the body. Kulvinskas (Survival into the 21st Century, 1975) wheatgrass helps to ‘detoxify the body by increasing the elimination of hardened mucous, crystallised acids and solidified, decaying faecal matter…It is the fastest, surest way to eliminate internal waste and provide an optimum nutritional environment’.

These are just some of the cleansing benefits of wheatgrass, and I have barely scratched the surface with regards to listing its nutritional content. Put most simply, whether you are looking to undertake a formal cleanse, or simply try to add more nutrition to your diet – these reasons alone are enough to consider adding wheatgrass to your daily lifestyle.

3. High Amino Acid Content

You may have heard the expression before that – amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They are absolutely essential to our growth and cell regeneration. It is the astonishingly high amino acid content in wheatgrass that is leading to many bodybuilders and gym-goers incorporating fresh or powdered wheatgrass juice into their daily routine.

Wheatgrass juice is a complete protein and contains, amongst others, the following amino acids: arginine, serine, absenisic, lysine, aspartic acid, glycine, alanine, methionine, leucine, tryptophane, phenylalanine, and valine.

4. Wheatgrass Fights and Protects Against Illness

Organic wheatgrass powders and juices are an extremely effective way of boosting the body’s immune system to fight against and recover from illnesses and ailments. Wheatgrass is a great source of beta carotene, contains most of the B vitamins and vitamins C, E, H and K, and also contains over 90 different minerals and 19 amino acids. It also contains several active enzymes which play a major role in breaking down fats, undertaking biological functions and assist hugely in weight loss.Of the 90 minerals found, many of these are very alkalising and include calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron.

Many of the health benefits of wheatgrass stem from the faact that it is a living food. Being highly anti-bacterial, consuming wheatgrass will help to alkalise and detoxify the lymph and blood cells, helping the body to rebuild and transport toxins out of the body quickly and effectively.

Again, coming back to the chlorophyll content of wheatgrass – this can protect the body from carcinogens more effectively than any other food. Studies conducted on animals have shown that wheatgrass consumption has reduced the absorption of a number of very serious carcinogens whilst strengthening cells, detoxifying the liver and neutrailsing polluting elements within the blood.

Conclusion – Incorporating Wheatgrass into Your Lifestyle

Wheat and a number of other grasses are clearly very beneficial to the body and there is a very strong case for making them a part of our daily health routines. There are two principle ways to do so:

buy a growing kit/ freshly grown grass and juice at home purchase an organic grass (green drink) supplement

Both have their pro’s and con’s, however, you do not have to do one to get the benefits of the other. Many juice bars are also now selling wheatgrass shots and are including wheatgrass as an ingredient in their other juices.

If you are looking to purchase a powdered wheatgrass supplement, please be sure to check that the ingredients are organic and 100% pure (no fillers!).

If you have any questions regarding wheatgrass juice, juicers or powdered grasses/greens, please do not hesitate to contact us at Energise for Life

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Complex Diagnostic Tests and Procedures of Blood Analysis

Comments: 0July 13th, 2009 by admin



The blood as a whole is very complex with different constituents. With the advancement of biotechnology, these constituents have been able to be discovered with very complex diagnostic tests and procedures. What are they?

1. Common blood analysis (RBC count, Hemoglobin level, color index, mean corpuscular Hemoglobin concentration), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), WBC count, platelet count).
2. Hematocrit
3. Coagulation tests (partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time, concentration of fibrinogen in plasma).
4. Bleeding time, clotting time (Lee-white, Burker).
5. Tourniquet test (capillary fragility)
6. Type and crossmatch
7. concentration serums iron-binding capacity (TIBC)
8. serum bilirubin levels, Coombs test.
9. Sickle turbidity, Hemoglobin electrophoresis
10. Determination of specific coagulation factors deficiency
11. Ultrasound investigation of spleen, liver, lymph nodes
12. Radiography
13. Biopsy of red marrow

Laboratory Blood tests

Type and cross-match
Blood typing determines the ABO and Rh blood groups of a blood sample. A cross-match tests for agglutination reactions between donor and recipient blood.

Complete Blood Count
The complete blood count consists of the following red blood cell count, hemoglobin measurement (grams of hemoglobin per 100 ml of blood), hematocrit measurement (% volume of erythrocytes), and white blood cell count.

White Blood cell differential count’
The white blood cell differential count determines the percentage of each type of leucocytes.

White Blood cell differential count

3 days old
• Leucocytes (30-33)x10^9/l
• Basophils 0.5%
• Eosinophils 1-4%
• Neutrophils
1. myelocytes (0)
2. juvenile (0-0.5)%
3. bands (3-5)%
4. segmented (54-62)%
• Lymphocytes 11-25%
• Monocytes 6-10%

5 day Old
• Leucocytes (30-33)x10^9/l
• Basophils 0.5%
• Eosinophils 1-4%
• Neutrophils
1. myelocytes (0)
2. juvenile (0-0.5)%
3. bands (3-5)%
4. segmented (39-42)%
• Lymphocytes (45%)
• Monocytes (6-10)%

3 year Old child
• Leucocytes 8×10^9/L
• Basophils 0.5%
• Eosinophils 3%
• Neutrophils
1. Juvenile 0.5%
2. bands 3%
3. segmented 24%
4. Myelocytes 0
• Lymphocytes 63%
• Monocytes 6%

5 year old child
• Leucocytes (4-9)x10^9
• Basophils 0.5%
• Eosinophils 1-4%
• Neutrophils
1. myelocytes 0
2. juvenile (0-0.5)%
3. bands (3-5)%
4. segmented (3-42)%
• Lymphocytes 45%
• Monocytes (6-10)%

12 year old child
• Leucocytes (4-9)x10^9/l
• Basophils 0.5%
• Eosinophils 1-4%
• Neutrophils
1. myelocytes 0
2. juvenile (0-0.5)%
3. bands (3-5)%
4. segmented (54-62)%
• Lymphocytes (25-33)%
• Monocytes (6-10)%

How did all these values come about? There are still normal indexes for Adult and discrepancies between the Caucasian as well as the blacks have also been discovered. SO complex, isn’t it?

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Hemolytic Anemia – Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Comments: 0July 7th, 2009 by admin



Hemolysis is the premature destruction of red blood cells (erythrocytes) and it leads to hemolytic anemia, when bone marrow activity cannot compensate for the erythrocyte loss. This condition can be caused by a large number of hereditary and acquired disorders, which number more than 200. Symptoms include anemia, breathlessness, leg ulcers and in severe cases, angina and heart failure. Treatment consists of blood transfusions for severe acute anemia, and avoiding known causes. This includes drugs, chemicals and known offending food products. Folic acid, steroids, immunoglobin, and iron therapy are commonly used, while surgical splenectomy is required rarely.

Ayurvedic treatment is aimed at treating the cause of hemolysis, reducing the anemia and treating the associated symptoms. Medicines like Punarnavadi Mandur, Tapyadi Loh, Arogya Vardhini and Lohasav are used to increase the red blood cell count. Medicines which act on the “Rakta” and “Majja” dhatus (tissues) of the body are used for this condition. These medicines include Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha (Cissampelos pareira), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Guduchi (Tinosporia cordifolia) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis).

In addition, medicines which act on the bone marrow are given in an attempt to improve the production of healthy red blood cells and also to reduce the tendency for hemolysis. These medicines include Guduchi, Amalaki, Musta, Laxadi Guggulu, Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Heerak Bhasma and Panch -Tikta -Ghrut -Guggulu.

Additional treatment needs to be given for associated symptoms. Triphala Guggulu and Mandukparni (Centella asiatica) are used for leg ulcers. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna) and Laxmi Vilas Ras are used for angina and heart disease.

The overall results of treatment in this condition depend upon the cause of hemolysis. However, in most of the conditions related to hemolytic anemia, the outcome is usually quite good. Acute or emergency cases need to be treated by a Hematologist.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

Anemia – Do You Have it?

Comments: 0June 8th, 2009 by admin



Anemia goes undetected in many people, and symptoms can be vague. Anemia can be caused by a deficiency in folate, iron and/or vitamins and can take months to years to develop. It is more a process of a disease, rather than a disease itself. In menstruating women and young mothers, dietary iron deficiency is a common cause of deficient red blood cell production. Some of the more common symptoms of nutritional deficiency anemia are fatigue, chest pain, trouble breathing, weight loss, weakness, dizziness, pale skin. Anemia can make you feel weak, cold, dizzy and irritable. Pale skin and nail beds are often a useful diagnostic sign in moderate or severe anemia, but it is not always apparent.

You are ‘anemic’ when there is not enough oxygen in the blood. This happens when there are not enough red blood cells being produced. Oxygenated blood helps give your body its energy and your skin a healthy glow. Red Blood Cells carry the oxygen from your lungs to your brain and the rest of your body and each blood cell only lives for about 100 days. Therefore, the body is constantly needing to replace them.

The production of the cells is a function of the bone marrow. Folate (Vitamin B9), iron, Vitamins C and B12 are required to produce healthy red blood cells. If there is a deficiency of Vitamin C which assists in the absorption of dietary iron, the bone marrow produces smaller and fewer cells. A deficiency of Folate and Vitamin B12 results in the bone marrow producing large underdeveloped red blood cells resulting in a shortage of cells.

Fortunately, these deficiencies can usually be corrected through a balanced diet containing green leafy vegetables and citrus fruit and juices for Folate, red and white meat and dairy products for vitamin B12, citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, green peppers, cantaloupe and potatoes for vitamin C. Smoking interferes with the absorption of nutrients, especially vitamin C which helps your body absorb iron, an important building block of red blood cells. Alcohol also effects your ability to absorb nutrients. Some drugs can cause a vitamin deficiency as well.

There may also be another reason for the deficiency of vitamin B12 other than diet. As the liver stores large quantities of B12, it can take a period of time before a deficiency becomes apparent. If there has been an operation on the stomach such as a gastric bypass, vitamin B12 may not be able to be broken down from the food eaten and therefore not absorbed into the body. If this is the case, there are Vitamin B12 shots available to replenish the levels.

Different types of anemia have different causes. However, generally when feelings of constant fatigue, dizziness, pale skin and lack of energy occur, it is advisable to consult a doctor and have blood tests to determine if the blood count is normal. If not, the doctor can then investigate the reasons.

Most people do not realize they are anemic and many complain of weakness or fatigue blaming it on stress, depression, lifestyle etc.. Quite often it is due to a prolonged lack of proper nutrition. A busy and hectic lifestyle can lead to developing a habit of fast foods which lacks the necessary fruit and vegetables in the diet. The effects of a low nutritional diet can take months to years to have a noticeable effect and produce anemia. Altering this habit and changing to a nutritional diet is probably the best prevention.

There is also a new product available as a support to balancing the blood by providing vitamins and iron through absorption through the skin – meaning no tablets necessary. You can read more about it at the Bio Health Chip Store. Always see a doctor if you suspect you have anemia as there are more serious causes that may be present.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

The Most Common Types, Causes And Treatments Of Anemia

Comments: 0May 28th, 2009 by admin



Although there are over 400 types of anemia, many are rare with only about a dozen being routinely seen in the United States. Even so, over 3.5 million Americans are affected by anemia. Medically speaking, anemia is not a disease on its own but rather a symptom of other disorders. Anemia is defined as the condition that develops when your blood does not contain enough healthy red blood cells. The symptoms of anemia are caused by the blood not receiving enough oxygen through the red blood cells. Teens, pregnant women and the elderly are at the highest risk for developing anemia.

There are three main ways anemia is developed: blood loss, reduced or dysfunctional red blood cell production or the destruction of red blood cells in the blood. In this article we will discuss the most common types causes by each of the three main factors are well as the treatments for each type mentioned.

Blood Loss

Anemia caused by blood loss can occur over time and is usually very mild to start. As the blood loss continues or reoccurs and the anemia isn’t treated, the anemia becomes more severe and the symptoms may become more apparent and disruptive. Ulcers, certain types of cancer and the inflammation of stomach known as gastritis can cause anemia and may go undetected for a long time before being diagnosed. The anti-inflammatory medications known as NSAIDS, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can also lead to anemia whether by overuse or sensitivity to such products. That is why it is very important to follow dosing instructions and only use medications when needed or by doctor’s recommendation. Finally, excessive menstruation and blood loss from childbirth (particularly when there are more than one baby) are responsible for causing anemia in some cases. The only treatment for this type of anemia is to reduce or eliminate the cause of the anemia as much as possible.

Reduced Or Dysfunctional Production

The most commonly seen types are caused by decreased or dysfunctional red blood cell production in the bloodstream. This can happen from abnormal blood cells or from a lack of the proper nutrients for red blood cell production. The most common forms of anemia caused by decreased or dysfunctional blood cell production are sickle cell, iron-deficiency, and vitamin deficiency.

Sickle cell is an inherited condition affecting only African-Americans. The shape of the red blood cells in a person suffering from sickle cell is crescent shaped. These crescent shaped cells break down more quickly than normal blood cells, therefore greatly reducing the amount of oxygen they provide. These abnormal blood cells also cause pain in their victims due to clogging of the blood vessels. Currently there is no cure for sickle cell anemia but treatment options are available and getting more beneficial everyday.

Iron deficiency is the most common type of anemia and the one most people are talking about when they mention anemia. Obviously, iron-deficiency is caused by too little iron in the blood. Iron is needed in the bone marrow for the production of hemoglobin, a part of the red blood cell, which is responsible for carrying the oxygen through the blood. Without enough iron, the blood doesn’t get enough oxygen. This causes all sorts of problems for the anemia individual including fatigue, paleness, rapid heartbeat, trouble focusing or remembering, and shortness of breath, headaches and even nosebleeds. Poor diet and certain medical conditions can result in iron-deficiency anemia. The treatment usually consists of iron supplements and healthy diet recommendations.

Vitamin deficiency anemia occurs when the body is lacking the vitamin B-12 or folate. Both minerals are necessary for the production of red blood cells. Vitamin deficiency anemia is caused in much the same way as iron deficiency, poor diet or medical conditions. Pregnancy, alcohol abuse and specific medications can also interfere with the levels of B-12 and folate in the body. This type of anemia is also treated in the same way as iron-deficiency anemia.

The Destruction Of Red Blood Cells

Anemia that is caused by the destruction of the body’s red blood cells is also known as hemolytic anemia. Whenever the red blood cells rupture more quickly than normal, anemia can result. Sometimes hemolytic anemia occurs for no known reason called spontaneous hemolytic anemia. However, many times the cause can be established. Known causes include inherited disorders; the presence of stressors, such as infections, venom in the blood stream, or drugs; or the inappropriate attack of the immune system against the red blood cells.

The treatment for hemolytic anemia varies according to the cause. If the cause were a substance, such as alcohol or drugs, then the treatment would include eliminating the substance from the person’s lifestyle. Surgery may be necessary to remove or repair damaged tissues. Steroids can stop the immune system from attacking the red blood cells and pain medication is often given along with IV fluids to provide support to the other treatments. In some cases, no treatment is needed at all. Usually this is the case when the anemia is very mild.

In summary, anemia is a common problem that affects millions of Americans. Anemia itself is not a disorder but rather a symptom of another condition. Each type of anemia is caused by different factors and requires different treatments. If you suspect that you or someone in your family is suffering from anemia, it is important to schedule a visit with your doctor right away.

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in anemia

« Older Entries
Newer Entries »