Question

What are the characteristics and management of Iron-deficiency anemia?

Answer 1

IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type anemia and it occurs when body doesn't have enough of the mineral iron.

CHARACTERISTICS OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

*Low number of red blood cells

*Decrease in the number of red blood cells, thus the amount of hemoglobin will be low

*Symptoms are often vague like feeling tired, weak, shortness of breadth less capacity to work

*Some patients may bring up with confusion and increased thirsty

*Children may have problem with growth and development

*Pallor coloration of mucus membranes is a characteristic of this patients

* Koilonychia (spoon shaped nails), dysphagia are also seen

*Iron deficiency anemia usually develop slowly, and can be unidentified also

MANAGEMENT OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Treatment should take into account the cause and severity of condition.

*If iron deficiency anemia is due to blood of other underlying problems, treat that at the first.

*Most cases can be treated with oral iron supplements (Oral Iron replacement therapy)

*In severe, acute cases, the blood transfusion or intravenous iron transfer can also be a choice

*Intake of Iron _rich food also can bring changes

*Food rich in ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is also beneficial