Anemia

The lack of hemoglobin or red blood cells typical of anemia could result from several causes. Visit Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. at their office in Tyler or Lindale, Texas, to ensure you get an accurate diagnosis. The experienced medical professionals offer comprehensive on-site testing and effective treatment for all forms of anemia. Call your nearest office if you have anemia symptoms or request an appointment by completing the online booking form today.

Anemia’s a blood disease, right?

Anemia is when you lack healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells). This means your blood can’t deliver enough oxygen to your tissues. 

Different kinds of anemia include:

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Vitamin deficiency anemia
• Aplastic anemia
• Sickle cell anemia
• Thalassemia

Anemia may be a short- or long-term issue and range from mild to severe. Severe anemia can cause pregnancy complications and cardiac problems like arrhythmia and congestive heart failure. It may even be impossible to complete everyday tasks.

Some anemias, like the inherited sickle cell, can lead to severe complications. Losing a lot of blood quickly may also cause life-threatening anemia.

How do I know if I’ve got anemia?

Anemia symptoms vary depending on your condition’s cause and severity. It’s often so mild at first that you don’t notice any problems, but they’ll develop and worsen over time. Common anemia symptoms include:

• Tiredness and fatigue
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Cold hands and feet
• Headaches
• Irregular heartbeat
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Chest pain

Your skin may become pale or yellowish, but this is less clear on Black and brown skin than on white skin. 

Symptoms are typically nonspecific, so many people don’t realize they’re occuring due to anemia. Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. can identify anemia with onsite lab tests.

Why do I have anemia?

Problems that can lead to anemia include:

• Too little iron 
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Gastrointestinal ulcers
• Cancer
• Regular use of aspirin
• Folate and vitamin B12 deficiency
• Inability to absorb vitamin B12
• Chronic inflammation
• Infections
• Autoimmune diseases 
• Toxic chemicals
• Leukemia and myelofibrosis 
• Family history

Being over age 65 or drinking too much alcohol also increases your likelihood of developing anemia.

What can I do about my anemia?

Anemia treatments Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. might recommend include:

Dietary changes

Eating foods rich in iron, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin C can all help to prevent and treat nutrient deficiency anemias. You might also need iron supplements or vitamin B12 shots.

Medications

You might require antibiotics if an infection is causing anemia. Pain relief might be necessary for some forms of anemia. If you have an autoimmune disorder, you may need to take drugs that reduce immune system function.

Procedures

Patients might need blood transfusions and/or bone marrow transplants for severe anemia. Intravenous (IV) hydration and oxygen therapy help to address dehydration and lack of blood oxygen.

Call Tyler Internal Medicine Associates P.A. to arrange an anemia evaluation or schedule an appointment online today.