How is Anemia Diagnosed? Tests and Symptoms to Look For

What is Anemia? 

Anemia is a medical condition in which the amount of healthy red blood cells or blood hemoglobin falls below its normal level. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to muscles and organs around the body. If the levels fall below a certain point, the body’s organs and muscles may not receive enough oxygen to function, causing weakness, fatigue, and other health concerns. 

The condition may develop due to a variety of reasons: 

• Nutritional deficiencies like iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or folate deficiency. 

• Chronic diseases like kidney disease, cancer, or autoimmune diseases. 

• Blood loss due to heavy menstrual bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, or injuries. 

• Genetic conditions like sickle cell Anemia and thalassemia. 

Recent WHO estimates show that anaemia still affects over 30% of women (15–49 years) and 39.8% of children (6 months–5 years) worldwide, making it a major ongoing health concern. 

Symptoms of Anemia to Watch For 

Anemic symptoms may vary from one person to another and may occur gradually, hence they are easily overlooked. Under mild Anemia, there are no or minimal symptoms. With the progression of time and worsening, signs emerge and can include: 

• Persistent tiredness and decreased stamina. 

• Pale or yellowish color due to low content of hemoglobin. 

• Shortness of breath when engaging in regular daily activities. 

• Dizziness or light-headedness, particularly when there are sudden position changes, such as standing up. 

• Irregular or rapid heartbeat because the heart is having to work harder to deliver oxygen. 

• Cold hands and feet due to poor circulation. 

• More frequent headaches. 

• Brittle nails and hair loss in long-term cases. 

These can be detected early and help one seek a timely medical evaluation. 

Diagnosis of Anemia 

The diagnosis of Anemia is a process integrating medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. 

Medical History & Physical Examination 

Doctors begin by asking about your diet, family history of blood disorders, menstrual history, and chronic illnesses. They will also seek physical signs like pale color, rapid heart rate, or abnormal breathing. 

Frequent Blood Tests Used in Diagnosis 

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit to ascertain the severity of Anemia. 

• Peripheral Blood Smear: Microscopic examination to check the size, shape, and color of the red blood cells. 

• Iron Studies: Serum iron, ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) to diagnose iron deficiency. 

• Vitamin B12 and Folate Tests: Help to detect deficiencies likely to lead to Anemia. 

• Reticulocyte Count: Tallies immature red blood cells to see if bone marrow is making sufficient new RBCs. 

• Advanced Testing: In complex cases, chronic illness or bone marrow biopsy testing may be required. 

When to Get Medical Attention 

You should visit a doctor right away if you: 

• Feel tired without having done anything 

• Have shortness of breath with minimal activity 

• H irregular or rapid heartbeat 

• Observed paleness or usual dizziness 

Anemia Treatment Options 

Treatment of Anemia varies with its cause and severity:

• Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Managed using oral or intravenous iron supplements and dietetic changes such as the inclusion of red meat, leafy vegetables, and lentils. 

• Vitamin-Deficiency Anemia: Treated by injecting or taking vitamin B12 tablets and folate supplements. 

• Chronic Disease Anemia: Emphasis on treating the root disease, and it can also involve medications such as erythropoietin to stimulate the production of red blood cells. 

• Aplastic Anemia: Requires transfusions of blood, drugs to promote bone marrow, or even bone marrow transplantation in severe instances. 

• Inherited Anemias (sickle cell, thalassemia): Treated with regular checks, drugs, and regular blood transfusions when necessary. 

Preventing Anemia 

While Anemia of all forms cannot be prevented, some lifestyle changes can help lower the risk:

• Following a balanced diet high in iron, vitamin B12, and folate. 

• Scheduling routine medical check-ups, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and children. 

• Managing chronic diseases early to prevent complications. 

• Hemoglobin monitoring during pregnancy and in individuals with chronic diseases. 

Conclusion 

Anemia is more than being tired; it’s an indication that your body isn’t getting the oxygen it needs to function at its best. Detecting its signs early, receiving proper diagnostic testing, and initiating proper Anemia treatment can prevent long-term consequences. 

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