Question

anemia you would think would have the highest morbidity and what would be the treatment for this type of anemia.

Answer 1

• Anemia is defined as a low level of hemoglobin in the blood, as evidenced by fewer numbers of functioning red blood cells. Hemoglobin in red blood cells is an oxygen-carrying protein that binds oxygen through its iron component. Hemoglobin transports oxygen to most cells in the body for the generation of energy. When hemoglobin levels are low, less oxygen reaches the cells to support the body's activities.
• WHO estimates nearly two billion people suffering from anaemia and approximately 50% of these cases are due to iron deficiency.
• Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. It happens when you do not have enough iron in your body.
• Iron deficiency is usually due to blood loss but may occasionally be due to poor absorption of iron. Pregnancy and childbirth consume a great deal of iron and thus can result in pregnancy-related anemia. People who have had gastric bypass surgery for weight loss or other reasons may also be iron deficient due to poor absorption.
• Treatment

Iron supplements

Iron tablets can help restore iron levels in your body. If possible, you should take iron tablets on an empty stomach, which helps the body absorb them better. If they upset your stomach, you can take them with meals. You may need to take the supplements for several months. Iron supplements may cause constipation or black stools.

Diet

Diets that include the following foods can help treat or prevent iron deficiency: red meat, dark green, leafy vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, iron-fortified cereals.

Additionally, vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. If you’re taking iron tablets, a doctor might suggest taking the tablets along with a source of vitamin C, such as a glass of orange juice or citrus fruit.

Treating the underlying cause of bleeding

Iron supplements won’t help if excess bleeding causes the deficiency. A doctor may prescribe birth control pills to women who have heavy periods. This can reduce the amount of menstrual bleeding each month.

In the most severe cases, a blood transfusion can replace iron and blood loss quickly.