Anemia is a condition in which a person has a lower than normal amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin in their body. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When a person has anemia, they may experience a variety of symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and pale skin.
Do Anemics Have to Take Iron Forever?
The short answer to this question is no. Anemics do not have to take iron forever, as the condition can be managed with lifestyle changes, supplements, and medications. However, it is important to know that anemia can be a chronic condition, so it is important to talk to your doctor and develop a plan of care that works best for you.
Dietary Changes
One of the most important changes that anemics can make to manage their condition is to make dietary changes. Eating foods that are high in iron, such as lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and dark leafy greens, can help increase the amount of iron in the body. Eating foods that are rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges, bell peppers, and citrus fruits, can also help the body absorb iron more efficiently.
Supplements
In addition to dietary changes, anemics may also need to take iron supplements in order to improve their iron levels. Iron supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as some may have side effects.
Medication
In some cases, anemics may need to take medication in order to manage their condition. Medications such as erythropoietin and darbepoetin alfa can help increase the production of red blood cells in the body. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking these medications.
Anemia can be a chronic condition, but it does not have to be a lifelong condition. With the right diet, supplements, and medications, anemics can manage their condition and live a normal life. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best plan of care to manage your anemia.
