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Worry not! If you have been diagnosed with anaemia or are suffering from it, it is treatable, and there are a lot of treatment options available for it!
Basically, anaemia is a condition associated with reduced levels of haemoglobin or red blood cells (RBCs) in the blood. Haemoglobin, a component of RBCs, transports oxygen throughout the body. There are many factors that can cause anaemia, but since an underlying medical condition is often the root cause, prompt detection and treatment are critical.
Blood tests will be used by your doctor to diagnose your anaemia and determine its cause. There are numerous causes of anaemia, and treatments vary greatly. Watchful waiting, iron supplements, medicines, surgical intervention, or even treatment for cancer may be included in these treatments.
Anaemia treatments
Anaemia can be cured with a wide range of treatments. Each treatment aims to boost your RBC count, which increases the quantity of oxygen in your blood. It can range from vitamin supplements to blood transfusions. In some cases, your doctor may also use supplementary treatments such as IV fluids and pain relievers to treat pain and prevent complications.
Anaemia is mostly treated in outpatient settings. You may require hospitalisation if:
- You are experiencing symptoms.
- Your haemoglobin levels have dropped significantly.
- You require a blood transfusion.
- You require extensive investigation.
If your haemoglobin level is less than 7 g/dL or you are symptomatic, a packed RBC (PRBC) transfusion is recommended.
Individuals with fluid overload, such as those with congestive heart failure or on haemodialysis for end-stage kidney disease, should be treated with caution when receiving transfusions.
- Other treatment options include treating the underlying medical conditions.
- The underlying disorders of the bone marrow are managed.
- Injections of erythropoietin (EPO)Â are administered to patients with chronic kidney disease.
- Synthroid are used to treat hypothyroidism in patients.
- Any potentially harmful medications must be avoided
- Gastrointestinal conditions (e.g., ulcers) that result in blood loss should be treated.
- Menstrual cycles in women suffering from menorrhagia must be regulated.
In addition to this, Iron-deficiency anaemia is treated with IV iron or iron supplements. Folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency are treated with folate and B12 supplements.
Complementary and Alternative Therapies
When iron deficiency is caused by a poor diet that is deficient in iron-rich foods, focusing on foods high in iron such as green leafy vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, tofu, beans, dried fruits, and iron-fortified foods like cereals and breads can help.
Consuming vitamin-C-rich foods and beverages, including broccoli, orange juice, and peppers, can assist your body in absorbing nutrients.
Treatments for anaemia vary depending on the cause and range from taking pills to needing medical procedures. A wholesome, diversified diet may also help you avoid some types of anaemia. In cases of severe anaemia, treatment will be given during hospitalisation with blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, or even surgery. Yes. Fatigue, irritability, headaches, and trouble concentrating are all common symptoms of anaemia, and your doctor may notice a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand or a heart murmur. A blood test can confirm the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in your body. More tests may be performed if you have anaemia to detect its type and whether it has a serious underlying cause. It is determined by the type and cause of the anaemia. Doctors may be able to correct iron-deficiency anaemia in a matter of weeks using medication and procedures, but the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute states that restoring your iron stores takes three to six months. Other types, such as aplastic anaemia or sickle cell anaemia, frequently necessitate long-term care.Treatment for Anaemia FAQS
How is anaemia treated?
Is a blood test required for anaemia treatment?
How much time does it take to cure anaemia?