Anemia is a disorder that occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues. This disease causes fatigue, dizziness and frequent headaches. There are several types of anemia, some more severe than others. Iron deficiency anemia occurs when the body has an iron deficiency which makes it difficult to transport oxygen. Sickle cell anemia is an inherited disease that causes red blood cells to become irregular, making it difficult for blood and oxygen to flow through the body. Thalassemia is another type of inherited anemia caused by insufficient red blood cells and hemoglobin. Aplastic anemia occurs when the body stops making enough red blood cells. Treatments range from simple supplements to blood transfusions. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best treatment for your type of anemia.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Iron deficiency anemia
Step 1. Take iron supplements along with vitamin C
The latter helps the body to absorb iron more easily.
Step 2. Start a diet of iron-rich foods such as spinach, red meat and artichokes
Step 3. See your doctor if you are a woman with heavy menstrual flow
Your period can affect your anemia, and your doctor may prescribe you an oral contraceptive to reduce your monthly flow.
Method 2 of 4: Sickle Cell Anemia
Step 1. Schedule regular medical visits
Since the only cure for sickle cell anemia is a bone marrow transplant, which is a risky and often difficult procedure to perform due to a shortage of donors, your doctor is likely to plan on taking medications and monitoring your condition periodically.
Step 2. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the medications he has assigned to you
Among the most common are penicillin to fight infections, pain relievers to reduce the pain associated with this disorder and N-hydroxyurea for more severe cases.
Step 3. Schedule blood transfusions based on your doctor's advice
The transfusion is used to replace and increase the number of normal red blood cells, reducing the risk of stroke and providing temporary relief.
Step 4. Use oxygen
Breathing in extra oxygen to introduce more oxygen into the blood is especially useful in times when you are out of breath and the pain is more intense.
Method 3 of 4: Thalassemia
Step 1. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of transfusions if you feel great fatigue
Step 2. Schedule blood transfusions throughout the year to increase the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin
Step 3. Take pills to reduce the level of iron in the blood
Frequent transfusions cause an accumulation of iron in the body which can be dangerous for the heart and liver.
Method 4 of 4: Aplastic Anemia
Step 1. Take all medications prescribed by your doctor
Among the most common are immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine, bone marrow stimulants and antibiotics to fight infections caused by a lack of white blood cells.
Step 2. Pay attention:
aplastic anemia may go away on its own if it is caused by pregnancy or radiation therapy to treat cancer.
In both cases there is a reduction in red blood cells, but the situation should return to normal at the end of the treatment or pregnancy.
