Anemia

What Is Anemia?

Anemia is the most common blood disorder in the United States. It occurs when your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells or when those cells don’t work as they should. Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Without enough hemoglobin, your organs and tissues may not get the oxygen they need to function properly.

One of the most common forms is iron deficiency anemia, which happens when your body doesn’t have enough iron to make hemoglobin.

Who’s at Risk?

Anemia can affect anyone, but certain factors increase your risk, including:

  • A diet low in iron or essential vitamins

  • Chronic illnesses or intestinal disorders

  • Blood loss from menstruation or pregnancy

  • Aging or long-term medical conditions

  • Infections or certain treatments like chemotherapy

Common Signs and Symptoms

Anemia symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions. Many people don’t know they have it until it’s detected through a blood test. Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Pale skin

  • Shortness of breath

  • Dizziness or headaches

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Irregular heartbeat

How Is Anemia Treated?

Treatment depends on the type and cause of anemia. Options may include:

  • Iron supplements for iron deficiency anemia

  • Vitamin B12 injections for pernicious anemia or B12 deficiency

  • Blood transfusions for severe or acute cases

  • Epoetin alfa (Procrit, Epogen) to stimulate red blood cell production in patients with kidney disease, chemotherapy-related bone marrow suppression, or certain marrow disorders

Working closely with your healthcare team can help identify the cause and create a personalized plan that restores energy and supports your overall health.

✅ Anemia Treatment Checklist

Getting Started:

  • [ ] Confirm type of anemia with your healthcare provider (e.g., iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic disease-related)

  • [ ] Undergo recommended blood tests (CBC, iron levels, vitamin B12, folate, reticulocyte count)

  • [ ] Discuss possible causes (diet, chronic illness, blood loss, medication side effects)

  • [ ] Review all current medications, supplements, or herbal products

Medication & Supplement Support:

  • [ ] Begin iron supplements, vitamin B12, or folic acid as prescribed

  • [ ] Understand dosage, timing (e.g., with food or on empty stomach), and potential side effects

  • [ ] Avoid taking calcium supplements at the same time as iron (it can reduce absorption)

  • [ ] Refill medications/supplements before running out

  • [ ] For severe anemia: Understand treatment plan for blood transfusions or injections (e.g., epoetin alfa) if needed

Dietary & Lifestyle Adjustments:

  • [ ] Incorporate iron-rich foods (spinach, red meat, lentils, fortified cereals)

  • [ ] Pair iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods to improve absorption

  • [ ] Limit caffeine around mealtime, as it can affect iron uptake

  • [ ] Stay hydrated and maintain regular meals/snacks

  • [ ] Track symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath

Ongoing Monitoring & Follow-Up:

  • [ ] Attend follow-up lab appointments to track blood counts and treatment effectiveness

  • [ ] Report any unusual side effects (e.g., dark stools, stomach pain, or rash)

  • [ ] Discuss long-term management if anemia is related to chronic illness

  • [ ] Ask about how long you’ll need to continue therapy based on your levels

Source

  • Newhall DA, Oliver R, Lugthart S; Anaemia: A disease or symptom. Neth J Med. 2020 Apr;78(3):104-110.
  • Palmer D, Seviar D; How to approach haemolysis: Haemolytic anaemia for the general physician. Clin Med (Lond). 2022 May;22(3):210-213. doi: 10.7861/clinmed.2022-0142.