Roohealthcare.com – A blood test can be used to determine whether a person has iron deficiency anemia. A CBC is a standard test for the body’s overall health. It may also be used routinely before surgery. The TIBC test measures the amount of transferrin, a protein that carries iron, in the bloodstream. Certain at-home test kits can measure iron and ferritin levels as well.
Anemia can Cause Complications for Pregnant Women
In severe cases, anemia can lead to complications for pregnant women, both during pregnancy and after delivery. The blood pressure can drop and limb reflexes can be affected. Severe anemia can cause pregnancy complications, so a physician should monitor pregnant women closely. They should be given iron supplements every day as well as a high-quality diet containing plenty of fruits and vegetables. A typical woman’s daily requirement for iron is 15 milligrams.
Another symptom of iron deficiency anemia is atrophic changes to the mucous membrane of the respiratory and digestive tracts. When the levels of iron fall too low, the body will be less able to fight infection. Additionally, it may increase the risk of heart failure and other health complications. It’s vital to check if you have iron-deficiency anemia to ensure you are not at risk for heart disease.
There are several conditions that increase your risk of anemia. A low-iron diet and prolonged breastfeeding are the leading causes of anemia in children. In addition, lead in the water and other environmental sources can interfere with the absorption of iron, causing red blood cells to become anemic. Lastly, some diseases affect the ability of the body to absorb iron, such as hemophilia or von Willebrand’s disease. Additionally, pregnant women need higher iron intake to prevent pregnancy complications.
The Right Treatment for Iron Deficiency Anemia
Treatment for iron deficiency anemia depends on the type and severity of the condition. Dietary changes can replace the iron that the body uses daily. Foods rich in iron include leafy green vegetables, fortified breakfast cereals, lentils, beans, eggs, and dried apricots. Caffeinated beverages and spinach can inhibit iron absorption. A physician can recommend dietary changes to help patients recover quickly.
Anemia can be very dangerous if the body cannot absorb enough iron. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen throughout the body. Insufficient amounts of this nutrient cause the body to have a lack of energy and result in fatigue. A woman may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and internal bleeding. Anemia is treated with iron supplements. However, if symptoms persist, additional tests or treatment may be needed.
Severe iron deficiency anemia can cause an irregular heartbeat. If left untreated, it can lead to heart failure and an enlarged heart. It may also cause premature delivery and may increase the risk of infections. In severe cases, anemia may even lead to birth defects, so pregnant women should consult their physician right away to prevent any complications. If left untreated, iron deficiency anemia can result in a child experiencing delayed growth and development.
Benefits of Treatment for Iron Deficiency Anemia
The treatments for iron deficiency anemia depend on the underlying cause, type, and severity of the problem. A doctor will initially try to increase hemoglobin levels and address the underlying cause of the problem. However, in rare cases, anemia is fatal and must be treated promptly. Once the underlying cause is cured, the body can rebuild red blood cells. This treatment will not only correct the symptoms but will improve the quality of life for patients suffering from the condition.
Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia may be subtle or similar to other medical conditions. In some cases, red blood cells are small and pale. A patient with a pale ferritin level may also have a sore tongue. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia may also require a bone marrow biopsy. This test requires a small amount of bone marrow.
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