Anemia in chronic conditions

Verified by Dr. Punit Jain, Lead Consultant Hematology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai.

Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all parts of the body, so when there is a shortage of red blood cells, the body’s tissues and organs do not get enough oxygen. Lack of adequate oxygen can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and headaches.

Anemia can be caused by a number of factors, including iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, and certain chronic conditions. Chronic conditions, such as kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease, can all cause anemia.

How chronic conditions cause anemia?

• Kidney disease can damage the kidneys, which can reduce the production of erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is a hormone that helps the body to produce red blood cells.
• Heart disease can reduce the amount of oxygen that is pumped to the body’s tissues.
• Cancer can damage the bone marrow, which is where red blood cells are produced. Inflammatory bowel disease can cause inflammation in the intestines, which can interfere with the absorption of iron and other nutrients that are needed to produce red blood cells.

Symptoms of anemia in chronic conditions

The symptoms of anemia in chronic conditions can be similar to the symptoms of the chronic condition itself.

• People with kidney disease may experience fatigue and shortness of breath, which are also symptoms of anemia.
• People with heart disease may experience chest pain and shortness of breath, which are also symptoms of anemia.

Diagnosis of anemia in chronic conditions

If you have a chronic condition and you are experiencing any of the symptoms of anemia, it is important to see your doctor to get a diagnosis. Your doctor will likely order a blood test to check your red blood cell count and other blood levels.

The treatment for anemia in chronic conditions will depend on the underlying cause of the anemia. For example, if you have iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may prescribe iron supplements. If you have vitamin deficiency anemia, your doctor may prescribe vitamin supplements. If you have anemia caused by a chronic condition, your doctor may treat the chronic condition to improve your anemia.

Prevention of anemia in chronic conditions

• Healthy diet: Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of iron-rich foods, such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and leafy green vegetables.
• Supplements: Take vitamin supplements if you are not able to get enough vitamins from your diet.
• Regular exercise: Exercise can help to improve your red blood cell count and reduce your fatigue.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking can damage your blood vessels and make it more difficult for your body to deliver oxygen to your tissues.
• Sufficient sleep: Sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being, and it can also help to improve your red blood cell count.
• Manage your stress levels: Stress can worsen the symptoms of anemia. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time with loved ones.

If you have a chronic condition, it is important to see your doctor regularly for checkups. This will help to ensure that your anemia is diagnosed and treated early.

Anemia Clinic at Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai offers expertise for the early diagnosis & treatment of anemia & its complications. Do not overlook anemia as a minor disorder or deficiency. Getting treatment on time may help prevent life-threatening complications.

Consult our expert, Dr. Punit Jain, Consultant Hematology, Apollo Cancer Centres, Navi Mumbai.

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment.