Anemia is a condition in which a person has a lower than normal number of red blood cells. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to serious medical conditions. While anemia is generally not life-threatening, it can be in certain cases. To determine if your anemia is life-threatening, you should consult your doctor and look for the following signs and symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Life-Threatening Anemia
When anemia is life-threatening, it is usually accompanied by more severe symptoms than are seen with milder cases. These symptoms may include:
• Extreme fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Rapid heart rate
• Pale skin
• Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Confusion or disorientation
• Cold hands and feet
• Excessive bleeding
• Unusual bruising
Diagnosing Life-Threatening Anemia
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to contact your doctor right away. Your doctor will likely order a complete blood count (CBC) to measure the number of red blood cells in your body. They may also order a test to measure the levels of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body. If your levels are low, it may indicate that you have a deficiency. Your doctor may also order tests to check for other underlying conditions that may be causing your anemia.
Treating Life-Threatening Anemia
The treatment for life-threatening anemia depends on the underlying cause. If the anemia is caused by a nutritional deficiency, your doctor may recommend taking iron supplements or eating more iron-rich foods. If the cause is an underlying medical condition, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat the condition. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
If you think you may have anemia, it is important to speak to your doctor. Anemia can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, and it can be life-threatening in some cases. Your doctor can help you determine if your anemia is life-threatening and provide the appropriate treatment.
