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Anemia
Last reviewed: February 28, 2011.
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. See also: Anemia due to B12 deficiency Anemia due to folate deficiency Anemia due to iron deficiency Anemia of chronic disease Hemolytic anemia Idiopathic aplastic anemia Megaloblastic anemia Pernicious anemia Secondary aplastic anemia Sickle cell anemia Thalassemia
Symptoms
Possible symptoms include: Chest pain Dizziness or light-headedness (especially when standing up or with activity) Fatigue or lack of energy Headaches Problems concentrating Shortness of breath (especially during exercise)
Some types of anemia may have other symptoms, such as: Constipation Problems thinking Tingling
Other tests may be done to identify medical problems that can cause anemia.
Treatment
Treatment should be directed at the cause of the anemia, and may include: Blood transfusions Corticosteroids or other medicines that suppress the immune system Erythropoietin, a medicine that helps your bone marrow make more blood cells Supplements of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, or other vitamins and minerals
Expectations (prognosis)
The outlook depends on the cause.
Complications
Severe anemia can cause low oxygen levels in vital organs such as the heart, and can lead to a heart attack.
References
1. Marks PW, Glader B. Approach to anemia in the adult and child. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 34. Review Date: 2/28/2011. Reviewed by: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital.
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